The researchers announce that flexible paper batteries can meet the energy demands. The research results say that a small size sample can release 2.3 volts. The main purpose of the future investigation is to produce energy that could provide product with higher power.

The difference between the conventional battery and the paper battery is that conventional batteries consist of separate components, and paper batteries’ components are united in one structure. The researchers say that paper battery is more energy efficient. Time needed for transferring power causes many problems: loss of energy, time. Unification of components into one structure is less time consuming and more energy efficient (PNAS).

“The battery contains carbon nanotubes, each about one millionth of a centimeter thick, which act as an electrode. The nanotubes are embedded in a sheet of paper soaked in ionic liquid electrolytes, which conduct the electricity.”

But the main obstacle is that carbon nanotubes are expensive, and time and energy efficiency is faded by less cost efficiency.

However Professor Sperling says: "I'm a strong enthusiast of electric vehicles, but it is going to take time to bring the costs down. They are ultimately easier to manufacture, more environmentally friendly and usable in a wide range of devices."

The future use of paper energy is more focused on producing a newspaper-type roller printer.