Energy Harvesting from Ambient Radio Waves: A Sustainable Solution for Low-Power Devices

• Author(s): Ubong Asuquo Idiong ; Eyare Nola Okwa
• Paper ID: 1710004
• Page: 77-85
• Published Date: 08-08-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 2 August-2025

Abstract

The proliferation of low-power electronic devices, particularly within the Internet of Things (IoT), necessitates sustainable alternatives to conventional batteries. Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting (RF-EH) emerges as a compelling solution by scavenging unused ambient electromagnetic energy from ubiquitous sources like cellular networks, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), and broadcast signals. This article comprehensively explored RF-EH technology, detailing its fundamental principles, system architectures (focusing on rectennas), material advancements, practical applications, and persistent challenges. Discussions on recent breakthroughs in rectifier efficiency, multi-band harvesting, metamaterials, and flexible electronics are presented. While power density and range limitations remain, RF-EH holds significant promise for enabling battery-free or extended-lifetime operation for myriad low-power devices, contributing to a more sustainable and maintenance-free technological ecosystem.

Keywords

Energy Harvesting, RF Energy Harvesting, Ambient Energy, Rectenna, Low-Power Devices, Internet of Things (IoT)

Citations

IRE Journals:
Ubong Asuquo Idiong , Eyare Nola Okwa "Energy Harvesting from Ambient Radio Waves: A Sustainable Solution for Low-Power Devices" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 2 2025 Page 77-85

IEEE:
Ubong Asuquo Idiong , Eyare Nola Okwa "Energy Harvesting from Ambient Radio Waves: A Sustainable Solution for Low-Power Devices" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(2)