A team of researchers created a novel physical film that was able to remove sweat from our skin – keeping us funny and cool while exercising, according to a recent study published in the journal Nano Power.
In addition, this new device can capture sweaty moisture, and turn it into power for wearable electronics, such as fitness trackers, watches and more.
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New film can remove sweat six times faster, retaining 15 times moisture
Sweating is a normal process that our bodies use to reduce thermal stress. “Sweat is mostly made with water,” said research team leader Professor Tan Swee Chang, from the department of materials science and engineering of the National University of Singapore (NUS ’). “When water evaporates from the surface of the skin, it reduces the temperature of the skin and makes us feel colder.”
“In our new invention, we have created a novel film that is extremely effective in removing sweat from our skin and then absorbing the moisture from sweat,” said Tan. “We will also be taking the step this at a later stage – by converting the humidity from sweat to energy that could be used to power small consumption devices. “
Each electrochemical cell can generate 0.57 volts
The main elements of the thin film are two hygroscopic chemicals – called ethanolamine and cobalt chloride. Beyond its extreme ability to absorb moisture, this device can release water quickly when exposed to direct light. In addition, users can “refresh” and reuse the movie more than 100 times.
The team of NUS researchers successfully developed an accessible energy harvesting machine made up of eight electrochemical cells (ECs) – to allow the efficient use of locked-in sweat. This setting uses the new film as the electrolyte, according to the study.
Each EC can generate about 0.57 volts of electricity once it is trapped in moisture. The total energy that the device can extract is enough to power a single light-emitting diode – a proof-of-concept that awakens the vital potential for battery-powered wearables powered by human sweat.
Packaged film has been successfully tested in underarm cap, shoe insole, lining
Under normal circumstances, hygroscopic structures such as zeolites and silica gels have low hardness and water-absorbing structures – making them an unsuitable choice for absorbing moisture when sweat evaporates. In contrast, the novel film that absorbs moisture from NUS researchers accumulates 15 times more moisture, at six times faster than conventional materials.
This novel film also shows a color change when it captures moisture, changing from blue to purple, and finally pink. This feature can show the level of moisture captured at any given time.
The research team at NUS packed the novel film into breathable, waterproof, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) body parts that provide a flexible substrate and is frequently used for applications in clothing. This packaged application has been successfully tested to absorb moisture in underarm pads, shoe lining, and the shoe insole.
The NUS research team aims to incorporate film into consumer products
“Underarm sweating is embarrassing and annoying, and this condition contributes to the growth of bacteria and leads to unpleasant body odor. Damage in the shoes can cause health problems such as blisters, calluses, and fungal infections,” said Professor Tan. “Using the undearm pad, show lining and shoe polish rooted with the moisture-absorbing film, the moisture from sweat evaporation is quickly absorbed, preventing sweat from accumulating and provides a dry and cool microclimate for personal comfort. “
“The prototype for the shoe insole was created using 3D printing,” said co-director of the research team, Professor Ding Jun, who is also affiliated with NUS’s materials science and engineering department. “The material used is a mixture of soft polymer and hard polymer, thus providing adequate support and shock absorption.”
While it’s too early to look for this novel, a sweat-changing film in electronics and athletics stores, the NUS team is aiming to work with private companies to introduce the invention. for future consumer products.