20mV input boost converter for thermoelectric energy harvesting

Abstract

We present a boost converter that allows power extraction from very low voltage thermoelectric generators. The converter, fabricated in 0.13µm CMOS, consumes 1.5µW of quiescent power and operates from input voltages ranging from 20mV to 250mV while supplying a regulated 1V at the output with approximately 50% efficiency. The low input voltage requirements allow operation from a thermoelectric generator powered by body heat.