Fabrication and Characterization of a Thermoelectric Generator with High Aspect Ratio Thermolegs for Electrically Active Implants

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Yongchen Rao - , University of Rostock, Jade University of Applied Sciences (Author)
  • Chu Xu - , University of Rostock, Jade University of Applied Sciences (Author)
  • Matthias Voss - , University of Rostock (Author)
  • Pingjun Ying - , Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Author)
  • Heiko Reith - , Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Author)
  • Kornelius Nielsch - , Chair of Metallic Materials and Metal Physics, Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Author)
  • Tamara Bechtold - , University of Rostock, Jade University of Applied Sciences (Author)
  • Dennis Hohlfeld - , University of Rostock (Author)

Abstract

Implantable thermoelectric generators hold significant promise as an alternative or supplementary energy source for implantable medical devices, but their performance is constrained by spatial limitations within implants and relies heavily on design optimization. In this study, an optimized thermoelectric generator featuring high aspect ratio thermolegs (0.5 × 0.5 × 4 mm3) is presented, which achieves a remarkable power output of 110 µW with a simulated temperature difference (3 K) in an implantation scenario. This achievement is realized through the use of a removable assembly rig during the soldering process, streamlining the fabrication process. Furthermore, the integration of a boost converter within the thermoelectric generator results in a voltage output of 2.5 V, addressing the voltage requirements of active implants. These findings highlight the potential that implantable thermoelectric generators can be used as a reliable, quiet and self-sufficient power source for implantable medical devices.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number2301157
JournalAdvanced materials technologies
Volume9
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 8 Jan 2024
Peer-reviewedYes

Keywords

Keywords

  • body heat harvesting, implantable medical devices, thermoelectric generators