At the American Chemical Society’s 240^th National Meeting, scientists have revealed that they are making progress in their attempts to create conformable rechargeable batteries. Currently being designed for the military, the batteries could be woven into fabrics are poured into any container.

Using a non-harmful but common virus for the lithium battery’s anodes and cathodes produces a power source that generates less heat which, in turn, reduces flammability risks. These materials also allow processing at room temperature and in water.

Mark Allen, Ph.D. from MIT presented the report outlining the uses of this type of battery. He stated that, “Typical soldiers have to carry several pounds of batteries. But if you could turn their clothing into a battery pack, they could drop a lot of weight. The same could be true for frequent business travelers — the road warriors — who lug around batteries and separate rechargers for laptop computers, cell phones, and other devices. They could shed some weight.”

The test phase for these batteries begins with the powering of unmanned aerial surveillance drones. We will have to wait to see if one day we can plug that iPod into our jogging clothes.

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