Ayse Bedeloglu
Bursa Technical University, Turkey
From Fiber to Power: Wearable Textiles Revolutionize Energy Generation and Storage
Abstract
The ever-increasing demand for portable and autonomous technologies in the defense field necessitates innovative solutions for energy production and storage. Textiles, with their inherent flexibility, large surface area, and compatibility with various structures, present themselves as a promising platform to meet this critical need. This work explores the cutting-edge potential of textile-based technologies to power military equipment and ensures uninterrupted operation, covering a range of materials from nanofibers to conventional fibers, yarns, and fabrics. Recent advancements in nanotechnology and materials science have unveiled a plethora of possibilities for textile-based energy devices (piezoelectric nanogenerators, solar cells, batteries, supercapacitors, triboelectric nanogenerators, etc.), offering significant advantages over conventional rigid systems.
The unique properties of textile-based technologies, particularly their compatibility, adaptability to various surfaces, and lightweight construction make them ideal for military applications. Their unobtrusive integration into clothing and equipment minimizes logistical burdens and increases operational efficiency. Additionally, the scalability and affordability of textile production methods hold significant promise for large-scale production and cost-effective application, further strengthening their practicality in military and defense environments.
This study discusses the latest research and developments in textile-based energy production and storage and highlights their important role in shaping the future of military operations. By exploring the diverse applications of these technologies, from self-powered camouflage and communications systems to energy-harvesting textiles and wearable sensors, the discussion will highlight the transformative impact of textiles in enabling energy autonomy and adaptability in the ever-evolving military environment.
Keywords: wearables, piezoelectric nanogenerators, solar cells, batteries, supercapacitors, triboelectric nanogenerators, nanofiber-based energy generation, defense applications
Biography:
Ayşe Çelik Bedeloğlu is a full professor at the Polymer Materials Engineering Department of Bursa Technical University, General Manager of Bursatechnopark and Bursa Technology Transfer Office (Bursatto), and the leader of Smart Materials Research Group.
Prof. Dr. Ayşe Çelik Bedeloğlu has deep expertise in different applications of polymers, especially in composites, energy applications, and smart & technical textiles. She deals with fiber-reinforced composites, nanocomposites, flexible renewable energy production and storage technologies, solar cells, piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators, and the synthesis of nanomaterials including graphene, mxene and nanowires. She has a good track record that includes more than 70 peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, books and book chapters, patents, and supervised master’s and doctoral theses.