Journal Description
Nanoenergy Advances
Nanoenergy Advances
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of nanoenergy published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within AGRIS, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 25 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 15.3 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Nanoenergy Advances is a companion journal of Energies.
Latest Articles
Preparation and Characterization of Amide-Containing Polyimide Films with Enhanced Tribopositivity for Triboelectric Nanogenerators to Harvest Energy at Elevated Temperatures
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(3), 284-299; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4030017 - 12 Sep 2024
Abstract
As triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology continue to evolve, its application in harsh environments has increasingly captivated the interest of researchers. However, the current research on heat-resistant triboelectric materials remains predominantly focused on the development of tribo-negative materials, with scant attention given to their
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As triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology continue to evolve, its application in harsh environments has increasingly captivated the interest of researchers. However, the current research on heat-resistant triboelectric materials remains predominantly focused on the development of tribo-negative materials, with scant attention given to their equally crucial tribo-positive counterparts. In this study, the tribo-positive polyimide (PI) material with enhanced tribo-positivity is developed by integrating amide groups with electron-donating effects into the molecular chain. Furthermore, the TENG devices based on this series of tribo-positive PI materials have demonstrated an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 242 V, a short-circuit current (ISC) of 8.13 μA, and a transferred charge (QSC) of 117 nC. Notably, these devices also demonstrate the capability to efficiently generate electricity even under elevated temperature conditions. This work not only proposes a potential molecular design strategy for developing high-performance tribo-positive PI materials applicable in TENGs, but also markedly propels the advancement of robust energy-harvesting devices engineered for operation at elevated temperatures.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Advances in Intelligent Sports Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators
by
Zhengbing Ding, Xing Wang, Chenyao Huang, Kyungwho Choi and Dukhyun Choi
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(3), 258-283; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4030016 - 28 Aug 2024
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In the realm of intelligent sports, the integration of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) marks a transformative approach toward energy sustainability and more advanced athletic monitoring. By leveraging the principle of triboelectricity, TENGs ingeniously convert mechanical energy from athletes’ movements into electrical energy, which offers
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In the realm of intelligent sports, the integration of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) marks a transformative approach toward energy sustainability and more advanced athletic monitoring. By leveraging the principle of triboelectricity, TENGs ingeniously convert mechanical energy from athletes’ movements into electrical energy, which offers a green and efficient power solution for wearable technology. This paper presents an innovative study on the application of TENG technology in sports science, with the results illustrating the potential utility of TENGs in revolutionizing the way we monitor, analyze, and enhance athletic performance. Through the development of self-powered wearables and equipment, TENGs facilitate real-time data collection on physiological and biomechanical parameters, ultimately enabling personalized training adjustments and injury prevention strategies. Our findings underscore the dual benefit of TENGs in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing the overall reliance on traditional energy sources and growing the capabilities of intelligent sports systems. This research contributes to the burgeoning field of nano-energy sports applications while setting the stage for future explorations into the optimization of TENG integration in athletic performance enhancement. Finally, the paper concludes by discussing remaining challenges in this area and opportunities for further research.
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Recent Advances in Flexible Self-Powered Sensors in Piezoelectric, Triboelectric, and Pyroelectric Fields
by
Yukai Zhou, Jia-Han Zhang, Feiyu Wang, Jiangbo Hua, Wen Cheng, Yi Shi and Lijia Pan
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(3), 235-257; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4030015 - 26 Aug 2024
Abstract
The rise of the Internet of things has catalyzed extensive research in the realm of flexible wearable sensors. In comparison with conventional sensor power supply methods that are reliant on external sources, self-powered sensors offer notable advantages in wearable comfort, device structure, and
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The rise of the Internet of things has catalyzed extensive research in the realm of flexible wearable sensors. In comparison with conventional sensor power supply methods that are reliant on external sources, self-powered sensors offer notable advantages in wearable comfort, device structure, and functional expansion. The energy-harvesting modes dominated by piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs), triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), and pyroelectric nanogenerators (PyENGs) create more possibilities for flexible self-powered sensors. This paper meticulously examines the progress in flexible self-powered devices harnessing TENG, PENG, and PyENG technologies and highlights the evolution of these sensors concerning the material selection, pioneering manufacturing techniques, and device architecture. It also focuses on the research progress of sensors with composite power generation modes. By amalgamating pivotal discoveries and emerging trends, this review not only furnishes a comprehensive portrayal of the present landscape but also accentuates avenues for future research and the application of flexible self-powered sensor technology.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Spray-Coated Transition Metal Dichalcogenides as Hole Transport Layers in Inverted NFA-Based Organic Photovoltaics with Enhanced Stability under Solar and Artificial Light
by
Marinos Tountas, Katerina Anagnostou, Evangelos Sotiropoulos, Christos Polyzoidis and Emmanuel Kymakis
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(3), 221-234; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4030014 - 10 Jul 2024
Abstract
In this study, we explored the potential of exfoliated transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) as innovative spray-coated hole transport layers (HTLs) in organic photovoltaics (OPVs), addressing the need for efficient and stable materials in solar cell technology. This research was motivated by the need
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In this study, we explored the potential of exfoliated transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) as innovative spray-coated hole transport layers (HTLs) in organic photovoltaics (OPVs), addressing the need for efficient and stable materials in solar cell technology. This research was motivated by the need for alternative HTLs that can offer enhanced performance under varying lighting conditions, particularly in indoor environments. Employing UV-visible absorption and Raman spectroscopy, we characterized the optical properties of MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, and WSe2, confirming their distinct excitonic transitions and direct bandgap features. The nanocrystalline nature of these TMDs, revealed through XRD patterns and crystallite size estimation using the Scherrer method, significantly contributes to their enhanced physical properties and operational efficiency as HTLs in OPVs. These TMDs were then integrated into OPV devices and evaluated under standard solar and indoor lighting conditions, to assess their effectiveness as HTLs. The results demonstrated that MoS2, in particular, displayed remarkable performance, rivalling traditional HTL materials like MoO3. It maintained high power conversion efficiency across a spectrum of light intensities, illustrating its versatility for both outdoor and indoor applications. Additionally, MoS2 showed superior stability over extended periods, suggesting its potential for long-term usage in OPVs. This study contributes significantly to the field of photovoltaic materials, presenting TMDs, especially MoS2, as promising candidates for efficient and stable OPVs in diverse lighting conditions, thereby broadening the scope of solar cell applications.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications)
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Open AccessReview
The Opportunities of Cellulose for Triboelectric Nanogenerators: A Critical Review
by
Renyun Zhang
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(3), 209-220; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4030013 - 4 Jul 2024
Abstract
Engineering polymers stand out as the predominant dielectric materials in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), primarily owing to their robust triboelectric effect and widespread availability. However, growing environmental concerns surrounding these polymers have prompted a notable shift towards exploring alternative eco-friendly materials, with cellulose materials
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Engineering polymers stand out as the predominant dielectric materials in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), primarily owing to their robust triboelectric effect and widespread availability. However, growing environmental concerns surrounding these polymers have prompted a notable shift towards exploring alternative eco-friendly materials, with cellulose materials emerging as compelling contenders over the past few years. Cellulose, derived from various sources and presented in diverse forms and structures, has found utility as triboelectric materials. In contrast to many engineering polymers known for their chemical stability, cellulose materials exhibit heightened chemical activities. This characteristic provides a unique opportunity to delve into fundamental questions in TENGs by manipulating the physical and chemical properties of cellulose materials. This concise critical review aims to thoroughly examine the applications of cellulose materials while shedding light on the opportunities presented by these versatile materials.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Doped-Cellulose Acetate Membranes as Friction Layers for Triboelectric Nanogenerators: The Influence of Roughness Degree and Surface Potential on Electrical Performance
by
Iuri Custodio Montes Candido, Andre Luiz Freire, Carlos Alberto Rodrigues Costa and Helinando Pequeno de Oliveira
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(2), 196-208; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4020012 - 20 Jun 2024
Abstract
The development of more efficient friction layers for triboelectric nanogenerators is a complex task, requiring a careful balance of various material properties such as morphology, surface roughness, dielectric constant, and surface potential. In this study, we thoroughly investigated the use of cellulose acetate
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The development of more efficient friction layers for triboelectric nanogenerators is a complex task, requiring a careful balance of various material properties such as morphology, surface roughness, dielectric constant, and surface potential. In this study, we thoroughly investigated the use of cellulose acetate modified with different concentrations of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to enhance energy harvesting for the TENG. The results indicate that the roughness degree is influenced by the homogeneous degree/aggregation level of doping agents in cellulose acetate membranes, leading to the best performance of open circuit voltage of 282.8 V, short-circuit current of 3.42 µA, and power density of 60 µW/cm2 for ZnO-doped cellulose acetate membranes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Water on Aging Phenomena of Calendric Stored and Cycled Li-Ion Batteries
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Gudrun Wilhelm, Ute Golla-Schindler, Katharina Wöhrl, Christian Geisbauer, Graham Cooke, Timo Bernthaler, Hans-Georg Schweiger and Gerhard Schneider
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(2), 174-195; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4020011 - 19 Jun 2024
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We examine the impact of water (160 ± 41 ppm of reference) on the anode, cathode, separator and electrolyte in two aging scenarios: calendric aging (60 °C, 80 days, charged state), resulting in a triggered current interrupt device (CID), and cycling 1680 times
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We examine the impact of water (160 ± 41 ppm of reference) on the anode, cathode, separator and electrolyte in two aging scenarios: calendric aging (60 °C, 80 days, charged state), resulting in a triggered current interrupt device (CID), and cycling 1680 times (charge/discharge with 1C, 2.75–4.2 V, 20 ± 2 °C), resulting in 24.5% residual capacity. We applied computer tomography (CT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to understand the capacity loss. The aged NMC/LCO–graphite cells were compared to a reference cell in pristine state. Both aging scenarios showed (a) thick depositions on the anode and cathode consisting mainly of oxygen, fluorine and phosphorous, (b) reduced separator pore sizes, (c) the deposition of Mn, Co and Ni on top of the anode and (d) the decomposition of the conductive salt LiPF6 accompanied by HF formation and a loss of active lithium. Calendric aging consumes the water content and additionally leads to (e) the decomposition of the organic solvent followed by CO2 gas formation. Cyclic aging increases the water content and additionally results in (f) the consumption of the additive fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC). These findings show how water affects aging phenomena and results in a capacity decrease in the cell.
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Recent Progress in Blue Energy Harvesting Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators
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Long Liu, Tong Hu, Xinmao Zhao and Chengkuo Lee
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(2), 156-173; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4020010 - 23 May 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
This paper reviews and summarizes recent progress in blue energy harvesting based on a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). This review covers TENG-based blue energy harvesters (BEHs) with different inertial units in spherical structures, derivative spherical structures, buoy structures, and liquid–solid contact structures. These research
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This paper reviews and summarizes recent progress in blue energy harvesting based on a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). This review covers TENG-based blue energy harvesters (BEHs) with different inertial units in spherical structures, derivative spherical structures, buoy structures, and liquid–solid contact structures. These research works have paved the way for TENG-based BEHs working under low-frequency waves and harvesting wave energy efficiently. The TENG-based BEH unit design and networking strategy are also discussed, along with highlighted research works. The advantages and disadvantages of different TENG structures with other inertial units are explored and discussed. Meanwhile, power management strategies are also mentioned in this paper. Thus, as a promising blue energy harvesting technology, the TENG is expected to significantly contribute to developing low-cost, lightweight, and high-performance BEHs supporting more frequent marine activities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Modeling Particle-Doped Materials for Performance Improvement of Contact-Separation Triboelectric Nanogenerators
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Carlos Callaty, Isabel Gonçalves, Cátia Rodrigues and João Ventura
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(2), 147-155; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4020009 - 30 Apr 2024
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Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are an attractive energy harvesting technology due to their high efficiency and vast applications in self-powered sensors. In this work, dielectric–dielectric contact-separation TENGs were modeled with time-dependent finite element simulations with the objective of improving TENG’s performance by enhancing the
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Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are an attractive energy harvesting technology due to their high efficiency and vast applications in self-powered sensors. In this work, dielectric–dielectric contact-separation TENGs were modeled with time-dependent finite element simulations with the objective of improving TENG’s performance by enhancing the relative permittivity ( ).To achieve this, the chosen material (PDMS, ) was doped with SrTiO3 ( = 300) particles. The open-circuit voltage ( ) and short-circuit current ( ) remained constant as increased, as predicted by existent models, but in contradiction with available experimental data. Thus, we introduced a charge correction model relating and surface charge density, allowing us to observe an increase in TENG performance output ( and ). This work shows that finite element simulations are suitable for better understanding and optimizing TENGs’ performance.
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Open AccessArticle
Surface Charge: An Advantage for the Piezoelectric Properties of GaN Nanowires
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Tanbir Kaur Sodhi, Pascal Chrétien, Quang Chieu Bui, Amaury Chevillard, Laurent Travers, Martina Morassi, Maria Tchernycheva, Frédéric Houzé and Noelle Gogneau
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(2), 133-146; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4020008 - 2 Apr 2024
Abstract
The optimization of the new generation of piezoelectric nanogenerators based on 1D nanostructures requires a fundamental understanding of the different physical mechanisms at play, especially those that become predominant at the nanoscale regime. One such phenomenon is the surface charge effect (SCE), which
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The optimization of the new generation of piezoelectric nanogenerators based on 1D nanostructures requires a fundamental understanding of the different physical mechanisms at play, especially those that become predominant at the nanoscale regime. One such phenomenon is the surface charge effect (SCE), which is very pronounced in GaN NWs with sub-100 nm diameters. With an advanced nano-characterization tool derived from AFM, the influence of SCE on the piezo generation capacity of GaN NWs is investigated by modifying their immediate environment. As-grown GaN NWs are analysed and compared to their post-treated counterparts featuring an Al2O3 shell. We establish that the output voltages systematically decrease by the Al2O3 shell. This phenomenon is directly related to the decrease of the surface trap density in the presence of Al2O3 and the corresponding reduction of the surface Fermi level pinning. This leads to a stronger screening of the piezoelectric charges by the free carriers. These experimental results demonstrate and confirm that the piezo-conversion capacity of GaN NWs is favoured by the presence of the surface charges.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fabrication and Characterization of Materials for Nanoenergy)
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Lithium on CH Divacancy Self-Healed Graphane: A First-Principles Study
by
Refilwe Edwin Mapasha, Sentserere Phodisho Kgalema, Hezekia Mapingire and Emmanuel Igumbor
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 122-132; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010007 - 4 Mar 2024
Cited by 1
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The possibility of using graphane monolayer crystals as an electrode material is becoming popular. Graphane is stable at room temperature and has a large surface area, but its chemical inertness hinders its direct interactions with Li ions. In this study, we performed density
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The possibility of using graphane monolayer crystals as an electrode material is becoming popular. Graphane is stable at room temperature and has a large surface area, but its chemical inertness hinders its direct interactions with Li ions. In this study, we performed density functional theory calculations to study the energetic stability and structural and electronic properties of Li on graphane with various CH divacancy configurations (v12, v13, and v14). The results show that the adsorption of the Li atom reduces the formation energy of the CH divacancy configurations. The Li-v12 is most stable with the highest binding energy of 3.25 eV/Li and relaxes to in-plane with other C atoms. Altering the Li charge state to have Li−1-v12 or Li+1-v12 affects the energetic stability and electronic characters of Li-v12. The Li−1-v12 (Li+1-v12) slightly (greatly) reduces the binding force between the Li and v12 configuration, and furthermore it improves (deteriorates) the conductivity of the structure. Further investigation of graphane with vacancies is encouraged due to these intriguing observations, as it holds promise for potential utilization as an electrode material.
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Open AccessArticle
Metal-Free, Bio-Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on a Single Electrode of Bacterial Cellulose Modified with Carbon Black
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Andre L. Freire, Lais R. Lima, Iuri C. M. Candido, Luygui G. Silva, Sidney J. L. Ribeiro, Emanuel Carrilho, Thais L. Oliveira, Luiz Fernando C. de Oliveira, Hernane S. Barud and Helinando P. de Oliveira
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 110-121; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010006 - 7 Feb 2024
Cited by 2
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Developing metal-free electrodes for prototypes of bio-based devices is an essential step in producing non-toxic components for implantable devices and wearables. In particular, the advancement in self-powered devices is a hot topic for several applications due to the possibility of creating free-battery devices
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Developing metal-free electrodes for prototypes of bio-based devices is an essential step in producing non-toxic components for implantable devices and wearables. In particular, the advancement in self-powered devices is a hot topic for several applications due to the possibility of creating free-battery devices and sensors. In this paper, the modification of bacterial cellulose by the progressive incorporation of carbon black (a conductive filler) was explored as a prototype for bio-based electrodes for triboelectric nanogenerators. This process was controlled by the percolation pathways’ activation through the contact of carbon black grains with the bacterial cellulose membrane, which represents a critical step in the overall process of optimization in the power output performance, reaching an open circuit voltage value of 102.3 V, short circuit current of 2 μA, and power density of 4.89 μW/cm2.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Self-Powered Dual-Mode Pressure Sensor Based on Porous Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Use in Smart Home System
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Yuanzheng Zhang, Ju Chong, Yiqian Mao, Xiangyang Gao, Jinmiao He, Hao Wang, Shishang Guo and Haiwu Zheng
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 97-109; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010005 - 4 Feb 2024
Abstract
With the rapid evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart home systems have greatly improved people’s lifestyles and quality of life. However, smart home systems based on a single sensor cannot efficiently control multiple terminals, which limits product penetration into lower-end markets.
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With the rapid evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart home systems have greatly improved people’s lifestyles and quality of life. However, smart home systems based on a single sensor cannot efficiently control multiple terminals, which limits product penetration into lower-end markets. Here, we have developed a dual-mode smart home system based on a porous triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which effectively compensates for the shortcomings of smart home systems being unable to control multiple appliances through a single switch. Benefitting from the remarkable electronegativity of MXene and the ameliorative specific surface area of the friction layer, the output characteristics of the porous TENG are greatly improved. Under the identical external stimulus, the open-circuit voltage (VOC) and short-circuit current (ISC) of the porous TENG were 3.03 and 3.04 times higher than those of the TENG with a pure PVDF membrane used as the friction layer. Thanks to the excellent output performance and good linear relationship between pressure and voltage, the developed dual-mode smart home system could efficiently control multiple terminals through a single sensor. This work not only provides theoretical support for developing high-performance TENGs but also paves the way to designing multifunctional smart home systems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Networking Strategies of Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Harvesting Ocean Blue Energy
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Xianye Li, Liang Xu and Zhong Lin Wang
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 70-96; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010004 - 22 Jan 2024
Cited by 3
Abstract
The utilization of abundant blue energy in the ocean could greatly contribute to achieving carbon neutrality. However, the unsolved economic and technical challenges of traditional technologies for harvesting blue energy have resulted in slow progress. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), as a new approach for
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The utilization of abundant blue energy in the ocean could greatly contribute to achieving carbon neutrality. However, the unsolved economic and technical challenges of traditional technologies for harvesting blue energy have resulted in slow progress. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), as a new approach for converting mechanical energy into electricity, have great potential for blue energy harvesting, which can be connected as networks with different numbers of units for varying scales of energy harvesting. Here, recent advances of networking strategies of TENGs for harvesting blue energy are reviewed, mainly concerning mechanical and electrical connection designs. Anchoring strategies of devices and networks are also discussed. The development of TENG networks could provide an effective solution for large-scale ocean blue energy harvesting, which can also serve as an in-situ energy station or power source for self-powered systems, supporting various marine equipment and activities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Recent Progress of Bioinspired Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Electronic Skins and Human–Machine Interaction
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Baosen Zhang, Yunchong Jiang, Baojin Chen, Haidong Li and Yanchao Mao
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 45-69; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010003 - 17 Jan 2024
Cited by 3
Abstract
Advances in biomimetic triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have significant implications for electronic skin (e-skin) and human–machine interaction (HMI). Emphasizing the need to mimic complex functionalities of natural systems, particularly human skin, TENGs leverage triboelectricity and electrostatic induction to bridge the gap in traditional electronic
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Advances in biomimetic triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have significant implications for electronic skin (e-skin) and human–machine interaction (HMI). Emphasizing the need to mimic complex functionalities of natural systems, particularly human skin, TENGs leverage triboelectricity and electrostatic induction to bridge the gap in traditional electronic devices’ responsiveness and adaptability. The exploration begins with an overview of TENGs’ operational principles and modes, transitioning into structural and material biomimicry inspired by plant and animal models, proteins, fibers, and hydrogels. Key applications in tactile sensing, motion sensing, and intelligent control within e-skins and HMI systems are highlighted, showcasing TENGs’ potential in revolutionizing wearable technologies and robotic systems. This review also addresses the challenges in performance enhancement, scalability, and system integration of TENGs. It points to future research directions, including optimizing energy conversion efficiency, discovering new materials, and employing micro-nanostructuring techniques for enhanced triboelectric charges and energy conversion. The scalability and cost-effectiveness of TENG production, pivotal for mainstream application, are discussed along with the need for versatile integration with various electronic systems. The review underlines the significance of making bioinspired TENGs more accessible and applicable in everyday technology, focusing on compatibility, user comfort, and durability. Conclusively, it underscores the role of bioinspired TENGs in advancing wearable technology and interactive systems, indicating a bright future for these innovations in practical applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Nanoplasmonics in Catalysis for Energy Technologies: The Concept of Plasmon-Assisted Molecular Catalysis (PAMC)
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Constantinos Moularas, Aikaterini Gemenetzi, Yiannis Deligiannakis and Maria Louloudi
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 25-44; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010002 - 30 Dec 2023
Cited by 2
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The utilization of plasmonic nanomaterials in catalytic technologies is an emerging research field with foreseeable applications in energy-catalytic technologies. On this front, the coupling of plasmonic nanomaterials with molecular catalysts is a newly approached, thus far unexploited field, that we discuss herein. In
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The utilization of plasmonic nanomaterials in catalytic technologies is an emerging research field with foreseeable applications in energy-catalytic technologies. On this front, the coupling of plasmonic nanomaterials with molecular catalysts is a newly approached, thus far unexploited field, that we discuss herein. In the present mini review, we contrast the case where the plasmonic particle itself is the catalytic center against the case where the plasmonic particle acts as a co-catalyst for an operational catalytic system. In the first part, we present an outline of the key phenomena in nanoplasmonics, and their potential implications in catalytic processes. The concepts of hot electrons, hot holes, and the dynamics of their generation and transfer are reviewed, as are the contribution of near-field and photothermal effects to catalytic processes. All these plasmonic-phenomena are then discussed in conjunction with representative catalytic systems from the literature.
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
E-Polymers: Applications in Biological Interfaces and Organisms
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Weixin Dou, Sihong Wang and Rusen Yang
Nanoenergy Adv. 2024, 4(1), 1-24; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv4010001 - 27 Dec 2023
Cited by 1
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Future electronics will play a more critical role in people’s lives, as reflected in the realization of advanced human–machine interfaces, disease detection, medical treatment, and health monitoring. The current electronic products are rigid, non-degradable, and cannot repair themselves. Meanwhile, the human body is
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Future electronics will play a more critical role in people’s lives, as reflected in the realization of advanced human–machine interfaces, disease detection, medical treatment, and health monitoring. The current electronic products are rigid, non-degradable, and cannot repair themselves. Meanwhile, the human body is soft, dynamic, stretchable, degradable, and self-healing. Consequently, it is valuable to develop new electronic materials with skin-like properties that include stretchability, inhibition of invasive reactions, self-healing, long-term durability, and biodegradability. These demands have driven the development of a new generation of electronic materials with high-electrical performance and skin-like properties, among which e-polymers are increasingly being more extensively investigated. This review focuses on recent advances in synthesizing e-polymers and their applications in biointerfaces and organisms. Discussions include the synthesis and properties of e-polymers, the interrelationships between engineered material structures and human interfaces, and the application of implantable and wearable systems for sensors and energy harvesters. The final section summarizes the challenges and future opportunities in the evolving materials and biomedical research field.
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Open AccessArticle
Pyro-Phototronic Effect Enhanced MXene/ZnO Heterojunction Nanogenerator for Light Energy Harvesting
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Mingyan Xue, Fangpei Li, Wenbo Peng, Quanzhe Zhu and Yongning He
Nanoenergy Adv. 2023, 3(4), 401-420; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv3040020 - 4 Dec 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
The coupling of pyroelectricity, semiconductor, and optical excitation yields the pyro-phototronic effect, which has been extensively utilized in photodetectors. It can also enhance the performance of light energy harvesting nanogenerators. In this work, a pyro-phototronic effect-enhanced MXene/ZnO heterojunction nanogenerator has been successfully demonstrated,
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The coupling of pyroelectricity, semiconductor, and optical excitation yields the pyro-phototronic effect, which has been extensively utilized in photodetectors. It can also enhance the performance of light energy harvesting nanogenerators. In this work, a pyro-phototronic effect-enhanced MXene/ZnO heterojunction nanogenerator has been successfully demonstrated, which can harvest broadband light energy (from deep UV to near-infrared) and still operate at 200 °C. The morphology of the ZnO layer and the MXene layer’s thickness have been further optimized for better light energy harvesting performance. For the optimized heterojunction nanogenerator, the responsivity can be improved from ~0.2 mA/W to ~3.5 mA/W by pyro-phototronic effect, under 0.0974 mW/cm2 365 nm UV illumination. Moreover, the coupling of pyro-phototronic and piezo-phototronic effects in MXene/ZnO heterojunction nanogenerators has been investigated. The results indicate that only a small tensile strain could improve the nanogenerator’s performance. The working mechanisms have been carefully analyzed, and the modulation of piezoelectric charges on the Schottky barrier height is found to be the key factor. These results demonstrate the enormous potential of the pyro-phototronic effect in light energy harvesting nanogenerators and illustrate the coupling of pyro-phototronic and piezo-phototronic effects for further performance improvement.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Celebrating the 18th Anniversary of the Invention of the First Nanogenerators)
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Influence of Binary Ligands in Designing Cesium Lead Halide (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I) Perovskite Nanocrystals-Oleic Acid and Oleylamine
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Ananthakumar Soosaimanickam, Alejandro Saura, Noemi Farinós and Rafael Abargues
Nanoenergy Adv. 2023, 3(4), 376-400; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv3040019 - 15 Nov 2023
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The surface chemistry of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals has been elaborately studied in recent years and has proved the critical role of carboxylic acids and amines in the formation and stability of the nanocrystals. Specifically, a slight change in the concentration and
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The surface chemistry of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals has been elaborately studied in recent years and has proved the critical role of carboxylic acids and amines in the formation and stability of the nanocrystals. Specifically, a slight change in the concentration and ratio of the frequently used oleic acid and oleylamine critically influences the resultant phase and physical properties. Thus, understanding the delicate surface of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals mainly relies on chemical bonding and the dynamic ligand environment of these two organic species. In this aspect, this review summarizes experimental findings about the critical role of oleic acid and oleylamine on the nucleation, growth, stability, phase, and morphology of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals and their effect under different circumstances.
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Direct Current Triboelectric Nanogenerators, a Perspective from Material Selections
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Xiang Li, Di Wei and Zhong Lin Wang
Nanoenergy Adv. 2023, 3(4), 343-375; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv3040018 - 3 Nov 2023
Cited by 3
Abstract
With the global energy shortages, sustainable energy scavenging from the natural environment is desperately needed. Unlike solar cell or wind power, which depends heavily on weather conditions, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has received extensive attention as an efficient all–weather energy–harvesting technology. Based on the
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With the global energy shortages, sustainable energy scavenging from the natural environment is desperately needed. Unlike solar cell or wind power, which depends heavily on weather conditions, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has received extensive attention as an efficient all–weather energy–harvesting technology. Based on the coupling principle of contact electrification (CE) and electrostatic induction, conventional TENGs convert mechanical energy into an alternating current (AC) output. However, the typically distributed sensor systems in the ubiquitous Internet of Things (IoTs) request a direct current (DC) input. Direct current triboelectric nanogenerators (DC-TENGs) with the constant output characteristic are critical to satisfy the above requirements. Here, DC-TENGs were reviewed from the perspective of material selections. As device performance is mainly determined by material properties, the development of DC-TENGs could be divided into three categories based on dielectric materials, semiconductor materials, and materials for iontronic rectifications. The operating mechanism and influencing factors of various types of DC-TENG were summarized, representative applications were demonstrated, and the main challenges of future developments were also discussed.
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