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

@article{1710004,
      author = {Ubong Asuquo Idiong, Eyare Nola Okwa},
      title = {Energy Harvesting from Ambient Radio Waves: A Sustainable Solution for Low-Power Devices},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {9},
      number = {2},
      pages = {77-85},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1710004.pdf},
      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)},
      month = {August},
  }