The scientists noted the possible applications of the yarn, such as harvesting energy from the motion of ocean waves or even from temperature fluctuations, the ministry said.

"We look forward to the potential applications of mass production of electricity in the ocean or other batteries that can create energy continuously for smartphones and drones," said Kim Sun-jeong, a co-author of the paper.

When yarn is twisted or stretched, the volume of the carbon nanotube yarn decreases, bringing the electric charges on the yarn closer together and generating energy, the researchers said.

The study was published in the latest edition of the journal, "Science."  (Yonhap)