Many of the limitations of existing electronic medical implants, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, arise from the internal batteries. The batteries are rigir, requiring the implants to have a strong metal structure that makes them bulky. At Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland researchers have been working on developing supercapacitors that can store a great deal of electric charge while being flexible and biocompatible with the human body.

Their latest prototype supercapacitor is made of an organic polymer-biopolymer materials and non-flammable electrolytes, making it safe for implantation. It is made of easily sourced natural materials that allow it to be manufactured at a reasonable cost. Since there’s no fear of leaking from the device, there’s no need to have a tough case to surround it.

In addition to being applicable for implants, the same supercapacitor technology may be useful for body-worn electronics that conform to the natural curves of our skin.