A recent study published in ‘Advanced Science’ introduces an innovative approach to powering Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which often struggle with energy supply. The research, led by Gonçalo Figueiredo from the Department of Physics and CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials at the University of Aveiro in Portugal, presents a temperature sensor that operates without an external power source. This breakthrough is made possible through the use of a novel luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) that incorporates a stretchable, adhesive elastomer.
The LSC is crafted from a lanthanide-doped styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene matrix, achieving a device efficiency of 0.09%. Despite its modest efficiency, the technology demonstrates significant potential for self-sustaining applications. The temperature sensor developed from this LSC exhibits a thermal sensitivity of 2.1% per degree Celsius and a temperature uncertainty of just 0.06°C. This allows for real-time data transmission to a server, enabling users to visualize temperature changes on their smartphones.
Figueiredo highlights the practical advantages of this system, stating, “The integration of LED-based lighting ensures functionality in low-light conditions, allowing for continuous operation.” This feature is particularly relevant for IoT devices deployed in various environments, where consistent energy supply can be a challenge. Additionally, the sensor can monitor four distinct thermometric parameters without requiring any changes to its configuration, underscoring the robustness and reliability of the system.
The implications of this research extend beyond the lab. The ability to create supply-less IoT devices opens up new commercial opportunities, especially in sectors such as smart buildings, environmental monitoring, and healthcare. As building-integrated photovoltaics gain traction, the potential for integrating such energy-harvesting sensors into everyday infrastructure becomes increasingly viable.
This advancement not only supports the growing demand for IoT devices but also aligns with global efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. The research by Figueiredo and his team could pave the way for more autonomous systems that require minimal maintenance and operational costs, making them attractive options for businesses and consumers alike.
