• A stretchy, conductive type of plastic could help power the next generation of implantable biomedical devices, like longer-lasting pacemakers or glucose monitors, according to Enrique Gomez, professor of chemical engineering at Penn State.
Article Summaries:
- Researchers at Penn State have developed a new type of stretchable plastic that can conduct electricity, thanks to microscopic whisker‑like fibers embedded within the material. Professor Enrique Gomez, a chemical‑engineering expert, says the conductive, flexible polymer could serve as a power source for next‑generation implantable medical devices. The material’s elasticity would allow it to conform to body movements while maintaining electrical performance, potentially extending the lifespan of pacemakers, glucose monitors and other wearable or implantable sensors. The breakthrough offers a promising alternative to conventional rigid batteries in biomedical applications.
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