Page 78 - Demo

76 POWER THAT BENDShammered, pierced by nails, and partially cut with scissors. Incredibly, it still worked as if nothing had happened, without overheating, catching fire or bursting. This means textile-based lithium-ion batteries are safe even in cases of traumatic accidents. What%u2019s more, clothing powered by a textile-based lithium-ion battery can be machine-washed just like regular gym clothes without removing the battery.A start-up to power up lifeTo commercialise the textile-based lithium-ion battery, Prof. Zheng co-founded a start-up, EightOSix Technology Company Limited, which was accepted into the three-year Incu-Tech incubation programme at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks. In collaboration with an engineering consultancy, EightOSix developed an illuminated safety vest that caters to the specific needs of construction workers at night. Powered by a textile-based lithium-ion battery packing 460mAh of energy, the vest can light up for 9.5 hours on a single charge. It offers three lighting modes for different uses and weighs just 260g.The COVID-19 pandemic has increased public awareness of hygiene practices. Many people have become more diligent in disinfecting high-touch surfaces and