Instantaneous Piezoelectric Nanogenerator for Pacemaker Applications

Implantable nanogenerators have the potential to serve as a source of power for cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) by harvesting biomechanical energy from biological movements within the body. This could eventually result in the creation of battery-free and lead-free implantable electronic devices in situ. Nevertheless, the efficient harvesting and conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy storage has historically been a significant challenge, primarily due to size constraints, the limited output of conventional piezoelectric materials, and the irregularity of cardiac motion. In this study, we have devised an integrated backup power system that effectively enhances the output voltage and output current of piezoelectric thin film materials. The structure is malleable and adaptable, conforming effectively to the surface of the heart. In accordance with the principles of bionic engineering, a soft and flexible instantaneous nanogenerator (i-NG) system has been developed for long-term in vivo implantation on the surface of the heart. The system comprises the i-NG, contact electrodes, wires, rectifiers, and micro capacitors, with a capacitance of 100 μF that can be charged up to 2.5 V in 10 minutes. The device is designed to operate exclusively on the surface of the heart and has been demonstrated to have no adverse impact on the heart's normal functioning or biocompatibility. With the assistance of the pacemaker management element, the pacemaker can be activated normally, as reflected by ECG signals. This study presents the excellent results of fast charging in this design and offers new insights and prospects for the development of leadless pacemakers.