# Edible Batteries Power Next-Gen Medical Devices Biodegradable rice paper battery safely dissolves in the body after use. - **Source:** [Nature](https://brifing.si/source/4d850c3b-dd79-4024-bc91-db2571889199) - **Published:** 2026-09-21 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/bfd6fb5e-c974-4ad1-ac3d-1f7a4d1ecb0e ## Breakthrough in medical power sources Researchers at MIT have developed a fully edible battery made from rice paper-like materials that can safely power ingestible medical devices. The battery uses magnesium and molybdenum trioxide electrodes - both essential micronutrients. After completing its function, the battery dissolves harmlessly in the digestive system. This solves a critical safety issue with conventional batteries that can leak toxic materials. The technology was tested in pigs with promising results. ## Addressing conventional battery dangers Traditional batteries in medical devices pose serious risks if they leak, potentially causing chemical burns or releasing toxins. Study co-author Giovanni Traverso, a mechanical engineer and gastroenterologist, highlights how current lithium-ion and alkaline batteries contain harmful metals and plastics. These materials can accumulate in the body or fragment into dangerous pieces. The edible battery eliminates these risks through its completely biodegradable design using body-friendly materials. ## Innovative material selection The research team faced significant constraints in material selection. They needed conductive yet edible components for electrodes, electrolytes, and packaging. Magnesium and molybdenum were chosen for their nutritional value and electrical properties. The electrolyte uses a biodegradable ionic liquid instead of saline solutions. Packaging combines cellulose-based edible rice paper with beeswax coating to resist stomach acid temporarily while ensuring eventual complete absorption. ## Successful animal testing In pig trials, the battery powered two types of devices effectively: an RFID tag for internal data transmission and a stomach stimulator affecting hunger hormones. The RFID device transmitted signals externally when swallowed in gel capsules. The stimulation device increased ghrelin levels when placed in pigs' stomachs via endoscopy. Both applications demonstrated the battery's practical medical potential while confirming its safety through complete biodegradation. ## Electroceutical applications The technology enables new 'electroceutical' approaches to regulate the gut-brain connection. Traverso notes these could offer less invasive alternatives to bariatric surgery or permanent implants for digestive system regulation. The temporary nature of edible-powered devices reduces long-term complications. This aligns with growing interest in transient electronics that perform their function then safely dissolve, eliminating removal procedures. ## Performance characteristics The edible battery provides sufficient voltage for medical electronics through its magnesium-molybdenum electrode pairing. Testing in simulated gastric fluid showed dissolution beginning within two weeks and completing in several months. The beeswax coating controls the dissolution rate to match device operational requirements. This balance between temporary structural integrity and eventual complete absorption was a key engineering challenge successfully addressed. ## Inspiration from everyday items The researchers drew inspiration from unexpected sources - particularly rice paper candy wrappers. These edible cellulose-based materials demonstrated the desired combination of structural support and safe digestibility. The team replicated these properties while adding necessary electrical functionality. This biomimetic approach highlights how observing everyday materials can lead to breakthrough medical innovations. ## Future of personalized medicine This development paves the way for safer, fully biodegradable diagnostic and therapeutic devices. Potential applications include temporary health monitors and targeted drug delivery systems. By eliminating battery toxicity concerns, it enables wider adoption of ingestible electronics. The technology represents a significant step toward realizing the promise of personalized medicine with minimal patient risk. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-02987-3 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._