Scientists from the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, together with colleagues from Moscow State University and the Institute of Organoelement Compounds of the Russian Academy of Sciences, have developed an innovative material that can transform magnetic fields into electricity. This discovery could become the basis for new sensors, wireless devices and energy harvesting systems.
The development is based on a flexible composite of polymers and cobalt ferrite nanoparticles. Unlike traditional rigid multiferroics, this material is elastic, which makes it promising for flexible electronics.
Key components of the composite:
- Silicone elastomer – gives the material flexibility.
- Polyvinylidene fluoride – generates electricity when deformed.
- Cobalt ferrite nanoparticles – enhance the transformation of the magnetic field.
Experiments have shown that adding zinc The composition of nanoparticles increases the efficiency of energy conversion by 3 times compared to conventional cobalt ferrite.
The new material can be used in:
- Wireless sensors.
- Wearable electronics (smart watches, fitness trackers).
- Systems for collecting energy from surrounding electromagnetic fields.
“Even small changes in the composition of nanoparticles significantly enhance the magnetoelectric effect. This opens up opportunities for creating compact and energy-efficient devices,” said Valeria Rodionova, head of the study.
The development of Russian scientists brings closer the era of autonomous devices that operate without traditional power sources. In the future, such technologies could reduce dependence on batteries and make electronics more environmentally friendly.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology
Source: minobrnauki.gov.ru
