Harvard University is about to launch a super-fast responsive stretchable thermometer

Harvard University in the United States is set to unveil a new type of thermometer that is flexible and reacts super fast.

The simple design allows for a wide range of applications.

This is essentially a soft thermal sensor, featuring a simple structure that responds quickly to changes in body temperature; it can also withstand pulling and twisting forces applied by the device or the wearer.

The thermometer consists of three simple components: an electrolyte, electrodes, and a dielectric material that separates them. The contact surface of the electrolyte and dielectric accumulates ions, while the dielectric and electrodes accumulate electrons. The charge imbalance between them creates an ion cloud in the electrolyte.

As the temperature changes, the ion cloud alters its thickness, generating voltage. This voltage is sensitive to temperature but not to expansion. Due to its very simple design, it has a wide range of applications. For instance, it can measure the temperature of boiled eggs while still hot and can respond to temperature changes within 10 milliseconds.

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