Two groups of researchers recently published studies on the prospect of designing flexible batteries almost simultaneously.
Despite being unrelated, the papers detail similar prototypes.
Furthermore, the battery remains healthy through about 70 full charge cycles.
The researchers solved the problem by going deeper and making every part of the battery elastic.
A solid rubber-like layer is formed when activated by light.
While there is room for improvement, the material could make wearables and implants better accommodate users' movements.
A team from the University of Cambridgepublishedanother approach to the problem on the same day as the Nanjing researchers.
Tests on living organisms are forthcoming.
Early examinations of electric eels in the 18th century also helpedinspirethe invention of the first electric battery in 1800.
Image credit: American Chemical Society
