MIT researchers have created tiny batteries intended to power ingestible electronic devices, according to Medical Xpress. The batteries are made from materials deemed safe for human consumption, allowing them to break down in the gastrointestinal tract after use.
This design could make ingestible devices safer for patients by avoiding the need for conventional batteries that might pose risks if retained. It could also minimize the environmental impact of discarded devices, as the batteries would degrade rather than persist as waste.
The work highlights a step toward more practical and sustainable ingestible electronics, though the report does not specify a timeline for clinical use or detail the exact materials involved beyond their safety for consumption.