Human-Oriented Technology

Our research laboratory is currently developing human-oriented technologies using energy harvesting to provide energy solutions for implantable medical devices, as well as research on neural stimulation and the treatment of chronic conditions through time-limited devices, blocking pathogens to prevent human diseases. Additionally, our research pursuits target the development of third-generation batteries and MEMS microphones as next-generation technologies.

1) Ultrasound-Driven Triboelectric Technology for Implantable Medical Devices

Ultrasound is a promising energy source to operate a TENG for powering implantable medical devices. Ultrasound is also well-known for its harmlessness to the human body with FDA-approved biosafety. Besides, it can be delivered to deep part of the human body without any restrictions for the device position. The energy-generating performances of the US-TENG were successfully demonstrated by charging Li-ion batteries through ex-vivo and in-vivo experiments. Material study should be conducted to achieve improved energy-generating performances of the US-TENG.

US-TENG as energy solution for implantable medical devices

Biodegradable US-TENG & its nerve stimulation

2) Pathogen Control in Various Environments (Airborne, Water, In-body)

Various pathogens persist in the external environment, necessitating continued research to mitigate or inactivate these harmful microorganisms. The objective is to enhance human longevity through investigations targeting the elimination of pathogens from the aerial transmission, impeding their dispersal via masks, purifying water sources, and averting surgical site infections caused by pathogenic infiltration.

 Microbial disinfection using self-powered Triboelectrification

 Virus blocking-triboelectric energy harvesting for SARS-CoV-2

3) Tertiary Battery, Hybridization of Battery and Energy Harvesting Technology

Smart sensors (IOT, implantable) commonly use batteries as their primary power source, but these batteries have limited lifespans and require periodic replacement. it would be desirable to realize a new energy solution called tertiary battery with a significantly increased lifespan through the hybridization of battery and energy harvesting technology. we aim to achieve low electrical impedance by developing innovative triboelectric materials for power generation and thereby greatly enhancing battery charge efficiency to the point of realizing a tertiary battery

Tertiary battery combining DC-TENG and solid-state battery

4) MEMS Microphone Based on 2D Piezoelectric Materials

In response to the rapidly growing global demand for MEMS microphone technology, we aim to develop a high-performance, highly durable MEMS microphone using 2D piezoelectric materials to secure material resources and gain a technological edge. To achieve a high SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) and high sensitivity, as well as to address the durability issue associated with piezoelectric microphones, we plan to conduct the following research and development efforts.

Multifunctional MEMS microphone with 2D MoS2 layer