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Search Results (497)

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Keywords = Triboelectric nanogenerator

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31 pages, 9769 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances of Hybrid Nanogenerators for Sustainable Ocean Energy Harvesting: Performance, Applications, and Challenges
by Enrique Delgado-Alvarado, Enrique A. Morales-Gonzalez, José Amir Gonzalez-Calderon, Ma. Cristina Irma Peréz-Peréz, Jesús Delgado-Maciel, Mariana G. Peña-Juarez, José Hernandez-Hernandez, Ernesto A. Elvira-Hernandez, Maximo A. Figueroa-Navarro and Agustin L. Herrera-May
Technologies 2025, 13(8), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13080336 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Ocean energy is an abundant, eco-friendly, and renewable energy resource that is useful for powering sensor networks connected to the maritime Internet of Things (MIoT). These sensor networks can be used to measure different marine environmental parameters that affect ocean infrastructure integrity and [...] Read more.
Ocean energy is an abundant, eco-friendly, and renewable energy resource that is useful for powering sensor networks connected to the maritime Internet of Things (MIoT). These sensor networks can be used to measure different marine environmental parameters that affect ocean infrastructure integrity and harm marine ecosystems. This ocean energy can be harnessed through hybrid nanogenerators that combine triboelectric nanogenerators, electromagnetic generators, piezoelectric nanogenerators, and pyroelectric generators. These nanogenerators have advantages such as high-power density, robust design, easy operating principle, and cost-effective fabrication. However, the performance of these nanogenerators can be affected by the wear of their main components, reduction of wave frequency and amplitude, extreme corrosion, and sea storms. To address these challenges, future research on hybrid nanogenerators must improve their mechanical strength, including materials and packages with anti-corrosion coatings. Herein, we present recent advances in the performance of different hybrid nanogenerators to harvest ocean energy, including various transduction mechanisms. Furthermore, this review reports potential applications of hybrid nanogenerators to power devices in marine infrastructure or serve as self-powered MIoT monitoring sensor networks. This review discusses key challenges that must be addressed to achieve the commercial success of these nanogenerators, regarding design strategies with advanced simulation models or digital twins. Also, these strategies must incorporate new materials that improve the performance, reliability, and integration of future nanogenerator array systems. Thus, optimized hybrid nanogenerators can represent a promising technology for ocean energy harvesting with application in the maritime industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technological Advances in Science, Medicine, and Engineering 2024)
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16 pages, 4508 KiB  
Article
Natural Kelp (Laminaria japonica) Hydrogel with Anisotropic Mechanical Properties, Low Friction and Self-Cleaning for Triboelectric Nanogenerator
by Dongnian Chen, Hui Yu, Jiajia Hao, Qiang Chen and Lin Zhu
Gels 2025, 11(8), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080597 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 122
Abstract
Kelp is a natural hydrogel material, which has been widely used in food industry. However, as a natural material, its properties have not been well explored. In this work, the surface and mechanical properties of kelp were investigated. The surface of kelp exhibited [...] Read more.
Kelp is a natural hydrogel material, which has been widely used in food industry. However, as a natural material, its properties have not been well explored. In this work, the surface and mechanical properties of kelp were investigated. The surface of kelp exhibited superoleophobicity and a self-clean property. The friction coefficient (COF) of the kelp surface was also low (<0.1). Interestingly, kelp demonstrated anisotropic mechanical properties either with or without metal ions. The tensile strength and toughness of kelp along with the growth direction (H) were better than those at the direction vertical to the growth direction (V). The adsorption of metal ions would significantly enhance the mechanical properties and ionic conductivity. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) was assembled using kelp with NaCl, which showed excellent output performance (open-circuit voltage of 30 V, short-circuit current of 0.73 μA and charge transfer on contact of 10.5 nC). A writing tablet was prepared to use as the kelp-based self-powered tactile sensor. This work provides a new insight into natural kelp, which may be used as a renewable material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Gels in Energy Materials and Devices)
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36 pages, 6545 KiB  
Review
MXene-Based Composites for Energy Harvesting and Energy Storage Devices
by Jorge Alexandre Alencar Fotius and Helinando Pequeno de Oliveira
Solids 2025, 6(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/solids6030041 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 303
Abstract
MXenes, a class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, emerged as a promising material for next-generation energy storage and corresponding applications due to their unique combination of high electrical conductivity, tunable surface chemistry, and lamellar structure. This review highlights recent advances in [...] Read more.
MXenes, a class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, emerged as a promising material for next-generation energy storage and corresponding applications due to their unique combination of high electrical conductivity, tunable surface chemistry, and lamellar structure. This review highlights recent advances in MXene-based composites, focusing on their integration into electrode architectures for the development of supercapacitors, batteries, and multifunctional devices, including triboelectric nanogenerators. It serves as a comprehensive overview of the multifunctional capabilities of MXene-based composites and their role in advancing efficient, flexible, and sustainable energy and sensing technologies, outlining how MXene-based systems are poised to redefine multifunctional energy platforms. Electrochemical performance optimization strategies are discussed by considering surface functionalization, interlayer engineering, scalable synthesis techniques, and integration with advanced electrolytes, with particular attention paid to the development of hybrid supercapacitors, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), and wearable sensors. These applications are favored due to improved charge storage capability, mechanical properties, and the multifunctionality of MXenes. Despite these aspects, challenges related to long-term stability, sustainable large-scale production, and environmental degradation must still be addressed. Emerging approaches such as three-dimensional self-assembly and artificial intelligence-assisted design are identified as key challenges for overcoming these issues. Full article
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42 pages, 4490 KiB  
Review
Continuous Monitoring with AI-Enhanced BioMEMS Sensors: A Focus on Sustainable Energy Harvesting and Predictive Analytics
by Mingchen Cai, Hao Sun, Tianyue Yang, Hongxin Hu, Xubing Li and Yuan Jia
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080902 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Continuous monitoring of environmental and physiological parameters is essential for early diagnostics, real-time decision making, and intelligent system adaptation. Recent advancements in bio-microelectromechanical systems (BioMEMS) sensors have significantly enhanced our ability to track key metrics in real time. However, continuous monitoring demands sustainable [...] Read more.
Continuous monitoring of environmental and physiological parameters is essential for early diagnostics, real-time decision making, and intelligent system adaptation. Recent advancements in bio-microelectromechanical systems (BioMEMS) sensors have significantly enhanced our ability to track key metrics in real time. However, continuous monitoring demands sustainable energy supply solutions, especially for on-site energy replenishment in areas with limited resources. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models, offers new avenues for interpreting the vast amounts of data generated by these sensors. Despite this potential, fully integrated systems that combine self-powered BioMEMS sensing with AI-based analytics remain in the early stages of development. This review first examines the evolution of BioMEMS sensors, focusing on advances in sensing materials, micro/nano-scale architectures, and fabrication techniques that enable high sensitivity, flexibility, and biocompatibility for continuous monitoring applications. We then examine recent advances in energy harvesting technologies, such as piezoelectric nanogenerators, triboelectric nanogenerators and moisture electricity generators, which enable self-powered BioMEMS sensors to operate continuously and reducereliance on traditional batteries. Finally, we discuss the role of AI in BioMEMS sensing, particularly in predictive analytics, to analyze continuous monitoring data, identify patterns, trends, and anomalies, and transform this data into actionable insights. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a roadmap for future continuous BioMEMS sensing, revealing the potential unlocked by combining materials science, energy harvesting, and artificial intelligence. Full article
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20 pages, 3903 KiB  
Article
High-Performance Barium Titanate, Carbon Nanotube, and Styrene–Butadiene Rubber-Based Single Composite TENG for Energy Harvesting and Handwriting Recognition
by Md Najib Alam, Vineet Kumar, Youjung Kim, Dong-Joo Lee and Sang-Shin Park
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2016; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152016 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 282
Abstract
In this research, a single composite-type stretchable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is proposed for efficient energy harvesting and handwriting recognition. The composite TENGs were fabricated by blending dielectric barium titanate (BT) and conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in varying amounts into a styrene–butadiene rubber matrix. [...] Read more.
In this research, a single composite-type stretchable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is proposed for efficient energy harvesting and handwriting recognition. The composite TENGs were fabricated by blending dielectric barium titanate (BT) and conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in varying amounts into a styrene–butadiene rubber matrix. The energy harvesting efficiency depends on the type and amount of fillers, as well as their dispersion within the matrix. Stearic acid modification of BT enables near-nanoscale filler distribution, resulting in high energy conversion efficiencies. The composite achieved power efficiency, power density, charge efficiency, and charge density values of 1.127 nW/N, 8.258 mW/m3, 0.146 nC/N, and 1.072 mC/m3, respectively, under only 2% cyclic compressive strain at 0.85 Hz. The material performs better at low stress–strain ranges, exhibiting higher charge efficiency. The generated charge in the TENG composite is well correlated with the compressive stress, which provides a minimum activation pressure of 0.144 kPa, making it suitable for low-pressure sensing applications. A flat composite with dimensions of 0.02 × 6 × 5 cm3 can produce a power density of 26.04 W/m3, a charge density of 0.205 mC/m3, and an output voltage of 10 V from a single hand pat. The rubber composite also demonstrates high accuracy in handwriting recognition across different individuals, with clear differences in sensitivity curves. Repeated attempts by the same person show minimal deviation (<5%) in writing time. Additionally, the presence of reinforcing fillers enhances mechanical strength and durability, making the composite suitable for long-term cyclic energy harvesting and wearable sensor applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymeric Materials in Energy Conversion and Storage, 2nd Edition)
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50 pages, 15545 KiB  
Review
Synergies in Materials and Manufacturing: A Review of Composites and 3D Printing for Triboelectric Energy Harvesting
by T. Pavan Rahul and P. S. Rama Sreekanth
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080386 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 452
Abstract
Sophisticated energy-harvesting technologies have swiftly progressed, expanding energy supply distribution and leveraging advancements in self-sustaining electronic devices. Despite substantial advancements in friction nanomotors within the last decade, a considerable technical obstacle remains for their flawless incorporation using printed electronics and autonomous devices. Integrating [...] Read more.
Sophisticated energy-harvesting technologies have swiftly progressed, expanding energy supply distribution and leveraging advancements in self-sustaining electronic devices. Despite substantial advancements in friction nanomotors within the last decade, a considerable technical obstacle remains for their flawless incorporation using printed electronics and autonomous devices. Integrating advanced triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology with the rapidly evolving field of composite material 3D printing with has resulted in the advancement of three-dimensionally printed TENGs. Triboelectric nanogenerators are an important part of the next generation of portable energy harvesting and sensing devices that may be used for energy harvesting and artificial intelligence tasks. This paper systematically analyzes the continual development of 3D-printed TENGs and the integration of composite materials. The authors thoroughly review the latest material combinations of composite materials and 3D printing techniques for TENGs. Furthermore, this paper showcases the latest applications, such as using a TENG device to generate energy for electrical devices and harvesting energy from human motions, tactile sensors, and self-sustaining sensing gloves. This paper discusses the obstacles in constructing composite-material-based 3D-printed TENGs and the concerns linked to research and methods for improving electrical output performance. The paper finishes with an assessment of the issues associated with the evolution of 3D-printed TENGs, along with innovations and potential future directions in the dynamic realm of composite-material-based 3D-printed TENGs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Composite Materials for Energy Storage Applications)
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68 pages, 1574 KiB  
Review
Influence of Surface Texture in Additively Manufactured Biocompatible Materials and Triboelectric Behavior
by Patricia Isabela Brăileanu and Nicoleta Elisabeta Pascu
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3366; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143366 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 633
Abstract
This study analyzes the recent scientific literature on advanced biocompatible materials for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) in biomedical applications. Focusing on materials like synthetic polymers, carbon-based derivatives, and advanced hybrids, the study interprets findings regarding their triboelectric properties and performance influenced by surface texture [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the recent scientific literature on advanced biocompatible materials for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) in biomedical applications. Focusing on materials like synthetic polymers, carbon-based derivatives, and advanced hybrids, the study interprets findings regarding their triboelectric properties and performance influenced by surface texture and additive manufacturing techniques. Major findings reveal that precise control over surface morphology, enabled by additive manufacturing (AM) is promising for optimizing transferred charge density and maximizing TENG efficiency. The analysis highlights the relevance of these material systems and fabrication strategies for developing self-powered wearable and implantable biomedical devices through enabling biocompatible energy-harvesting components that can operate autonomously without external power, underscoring the need for stringent biocompatibility and performance stability. This work synthesizes current progress, identifying critical material and process design parameters for advancing the field of biocompatible TENGs. Full article
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27 pages, 2729 KiB  
Review
Polymer Composite-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators: Recent Progress, Design Principles, and Future Perspectives
by Geon-Ju Choi, Sang-Hyun Sohn, Se-Jin Kim and Il-Kyu Park
Polymers 2025, 17(14), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17141962 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 456
Abstract
The escalating consumption of fossil fuels and the rapid development of portable electronics have increased interest in alternative energy solutions that can sustainably self-power wearable devices. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which convert mechanical energy into electricity through contact electrification and electrostatic induction, have emerged [...] Read more.
The escalating consumption of fossil fuels and the rapid development of portable electronics have increased interest in alternative energy solutions that can sustainably self-power wearable devices. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which convert mechanical energy into electricity through contact electrification and electrostatic induction, have emerged as a promising technology due to their high voltage output, lightweight design, and simple fabrication. However, the performance of TENGs is often limited by a low surface charge density, inadequate dielectric properties, and poor charge retention of triboelectric materials. To address these challenges, recent research has focused on the use of polymer composites that incorporate various functional fillers. The filler materials play roles in improving dielectric performance and enhancing mechanical durability, thereby boosting triboelectric output even in harsh environments, while also diminishing charge loss. This review comprehensively examines the role of polymer composite design in TENG performance, with particular emphasis on materials categorized by their triboelectric polarity. Tribo-negative polymers, such as PDMS and PVDF, benefit from filler incorporation and phase engineering to enhance surface charge density and charge retention. By contrast, tribo-positive materials like nylon and cellulose have demonstrated notable improvements in mechanical robustness and environmental stability through composite strategies. The interplay between material selection, surface engineering, and filler design is highlighted as a critical path toward developing high-performance, self-powered TENG systems. Finally, this review discusses the current challenges and future opportunities for advancing TENG technology toward practical and scalable applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Polymer Composites for Nanogenerator Applications)
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29 pages, 7197 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Electrospun Nanofiber-Based Self-Powered Triboelectric Sensors for Contact and Non-Contact Sensing
by Jinyue Tian, Jiaxun Zhang, Yujie Zhang, Jing Liu, Yun Hu, Chang Liu, Pengcheng Zhu, Lijun Lu and Yanchao Mao
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141080 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 568
Abstract
Electrospun nanofiber-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a highly promising class of self-powered sensors for a broad range of applications, particularly in intelligent sensing technologies. By combining the advantages of electrospinning and triboelectric nanogenerators, these sensors offer superior characteristics such as high [...] Read more.
Electrospun nanofiber-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a highly promising class of self-powered sensors for a broad range of applications, particularly in intelligent sensing technologies. By combining the advantages of electrospinning and triboelectric nanogenerators, these sensors offer superior characteristics such as high sensitivity, mechanical flexibility, lightweight structure, and biocompatibility, enabling their integration into wearable electronics and biomedical interfaces. This review presents a comprehensive overview of recent progress in electrospun nanofiber-based TENGs, covering their working principles, operating modes, and material composition. Both pure polymer and composite nanofibers are discussed, along with various electrospinning techniques that enable control over morphology and performance at the nanoscale. We explore their practical implementations in both contact-type and non-contact-type sensing, such as human–machine interaction, physiological signal monitoring, gesture recognition, and voice detection. These applications demonstrate the potential of TENGs to enable intelligent, low-power, and real-time sensing systems. Furthermore, this paper points out critical challenges and future directions, including durability under long-term operation, scalable and cost-effective fabrication, and seamless integration with wireless communication and artificial intelligence technologies. With ongoing advancements in nanomaterials, fabrication techniques, and system-level integration, electrospun nanofiber-based TENGs are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of self-powered, intelligent sensing platforms across diverse fields such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, robotics, and smart wearable systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Self-Powered Flexible Sensors Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators)
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15 pages, 2184 KiB  
Article
First-Principles Study on Interfacial Triboelectrification Between Water and Halogen-Functionalized Polymer Surfaces
by Taili Tian, Bo Zhao, Yimin Wang, Shifan Huang, Xiangcheng Ju and Yuyan Fan
Lubricants 2025, 13(7), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants13070303 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 389
Abstract
Contact electrification (CE), or triboelectrification, is an electron transfer phenomenon occurring at the interface between dissimilar materials due to differences in polarity, holding significant research value in tribology. The microscopic mechanisms of CE remain unclear due to the complex coupling of multiple physical [...] Read more.
Contact electrification (CE), or triboelectrification, is an electron transfer phenomenon occurring at the interface between dissimilar materials due to differences in polarity, holding significant research value in tribology. The microscopic mechanisms of CE remain unclear due to the complex coupling of multiple physical processes. Recently, with the rise of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology, solid–liquid contact electrification has demonstrated vast application potential, sparking considerable interest in its underlying mechanisms. Emerging experimental evidence indicates that at water–polymer CE interfaces, the process involves not only traditional ion adsorption but also electron transfer. Halogen-containing functional groups in the solid material significantly enhance the CE effect. To elucidate the microscopic mechanism of water–polymer CE, this study employed first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations, simulating the interfacial electrification process using unit cell models of water contacting polymers. We systematically and quantitatively investigated the charge transfer characteristics at interfaces between water and three representative polymers with similar backbones but different halogen-functionalized (F, Cl) side chains: fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), focusing on evaluating halogen’s influence and mechanism on interfacial electron transfer. The results reveal that electron transfer is primarily governed by the energy levels of the polymer’s lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO). Halogen functional groups modulate the material’s electron-donating/accepting capabilities by altering these frontier orbital energy levels. Consequently, we propose that the critical strategy for polymer chemical modification resides in lowering the LUMO energy level of electron-accepting materials. This study provides a novel theoretical insight into the charge transfer mechanism at solid–liquid interfaces, offers guidance for designing high-performance TENG interfacial materials, and holds significant importance for both the fundamental theory and the development of advanced energy devices. Full article
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24 pages, 4771 KiB  
Article
Constant High-Voltage Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Stable AC for Sustainable Energy Harvesting
by Aso Ali Abdalmohammed Shateri, Salar K. Fatah, Fengling Zhuo, Nazifi Sani Shuaibu, Chuanrui Chen, Rui Wan and Xiaozhi Wang
Micromachines 2025, 16(7), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16070801 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 443
Abstract
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) hold significant potential for decentralized energy harvesting; however, their dependence on rotational mechanical energy often limits their ability to harness ubiquitous horizontal motion in real-world applications. Here, a single horizontal linear-to-rotational triboelectric nanogenerator (SHLR-TENG) is presented, designed to efficiently convert [...] Read more.
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) hold significant potential for decentralized energy harvesting; however, their dependence on rotational mechanical energy often limits their ability to harness ubiquitous horizontal motion in real-world applications. Here, a single horizontal linear-to-rotational triboelectric nanogenerator (SHLR-TENG) is presented, designed to efficiently convert linear motion into rotational energy using a robust gear system, enabling a high voltage and reliable full cycle of alternating current (AC). The device features a radially patterned disk with triboelectric layers composed of polyimide. The SHLR-TENG achieves a peak-to-peak voltage of 1420 V, a short-circuit current of 117 µA, and an average power output of 41.5 mW, with a surface charge density of 110 µC/m2. Moreover, it demonstrates a power density per unit volume of 371.2 W·m−3·Hz−1. The device retains 80% efficiency after 1.5 million cycles, demonstrating substantial durability under mechanical stress. These properties enable the SHLR-TENG to directly power commercial LEDs and low-power circuits without the need for energy storage. This study presents an innovative approach to sustainable energy generation by integrating horizontal motion harvesting with rotational energy conversion. The compact and scalable design of the SHLR-TENG, coupled with its resilience to humidity (20–90% RH) and temperature fluctuations (10–70 °C), positions it as a promising next-generation energy source for Internet of Things (IoT) devices and autonomous systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)
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17 pages, 3483 KiB  
Article
A Novel Triboelectric–Electromagnetic Hybrid Generator with a Multi-Layered Structure for Wind Energy Harvesting and Wind Vector Monitoring
by Jiaqing Niu, Ribin Hu, Ming Li, Luying Zhang, Bei Xu, Yaqi Zhang, Yi Luo, Jiang Ding and Qingshan Duan
Micromachines 2025, 16(7), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16070795 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 636
Abstract
High-efficiency wind energy collection and precise wind vector monitoring are crucial for sustainable energy applications, smart agriculture, and environmental management. A novel multi-layered triboelectric–electromagnetic hybrid generator (TEHG) for broadband wind energy collection and wind vector monitoring was built. The TEHG comprises three functional [...] Read more.
High-efficiency wind energy collection and precise wind vector monitoring are crucial for sustainable energy applications, smart agriculture, and environmental management. A novel multi-layered triboelectric–electromagnetic hybrid generator (TEHG) for broadband wind energy collection and wind vector monitoring was built. The TEHG comprises three functional layers corresponding to three modules: a soft-contact rotary triboelectric nanogenerator (S-TEHG), an electromagnetic generator (EMG), and eight flow-induced vibration triboelectric nanogenerators (F-TENGs), which are arranged in a circular array to enable low-wind-speed energy harvesting and multi-directional wind vector monitoring. The TEHG achieves broadband energy harvesting and demonstrates exceptional stability, maintaining a consistent electrical output after 3 h of continuous operation. The EMG charges a 1 mF capacitor to 1.5 V 738 times faster than conventional methods by a boost converter. The TEHG operates for 17.5 s to power a thermohygrometer for 103 s, achieving an average output power of 1.87 W with a power density of 11.2 W/m3, demonstrating an exceptional power supply capability. The F-TENGs can accurately determine the wind direction, with a wind speed detection error below 4.5%. This innovative structure leverages the strengths of both EMG and TENG technologies, offering a durable, multifunctional solution for sustainable energy and intelligent environmental sensing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Self-Tuning and Self-Powered Energy Harvesting Devices)
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21 pages, 5380 KiB  
Communication
Influence of MWCNT Concentration on Performance of Nylon/MWCNT Nanocomposite-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators Fabricated via Spin Coating Method
by Talia Tene, Orkhan Gulahmadov, Lala Gahramanli, Mustafa Muradov, Jadranka Blazhevska Gilev, Telli Hamzayeva, Shafag Bayramova, Stefano Bellucci and Cristian Vacacela Gomez
Nanoenergy Adv. 2025, 5(3), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/nanoenergyadv5030009 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 436
Abstract
This work reports the fabrication and optimization of nylon/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposite-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) using a spin coating method. By carefully tuning the MWCNT concentration, the device achieved a substantial enhancement in electrical output, with open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current peaking [...] Read more.
This work reports the fabrication and optimization of nylon/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposite-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) using a spin coating method. By carefully tuning the MWCNT concentration, the device achieved a substantial enhancement in electrical output, with open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current peaking at 29.7 V and 3.0 μA, respectively, at 0.05 wt% MWCNT loading on the surface of nylon. The corresponding power density reached approximately 13.9 mW/m2, representing a significant improvement over pure nylon-based TENGs. The enhanced performance is attributed to improved charge trapping and dielectric properties due to well-dispersed MWCNTs on the surface of nylon, while excessive loading caused agglomeration, reducing efficiency. This lightweight, flexible nanocomposite TENG offers a promising solution for efficient, sustainable energy harvesting in wearable electronics and self-powered sensor systems, highlighting its potential for practical energy applications. Full article
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19 pages, 3030 KiB  
Article
Effect of Chitosan Properties and Dissolution State on Solution Rheology and Film Performance in Triboelectric Nanogenerators
by Francisca Araújo, Solange Magalhães, Bruno Medronho, Alireza Eivazi, Christina Dahlström, Magnus Norgren and Luís Alves
Gels 2025, 11(7), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070523 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Chitosan films with potential application in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) represent a promising approach to replace non-biobased materials in these innovative devices. In the present work, chitosan with varying molecular weights (MW) and degrees of deacetylation was dissolved in aqueous acetic acid (AA) at [...] Read more.
Chitosan films with potential application in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) represent a promising approach to replace non-biobased materials in these innovative devices. In the present work, chitosan with varying molecular weights (MW) and degrees of deacetylation was dissolved in aqueous acetic acid (AA) at different acid concentrations. It was observed that the MW had a greater influence on the viscosity of the solution compared to either the acid concentration or deacetylation degree. Gel formation occurred in high-MW chitosan solutions prepared with low AA concentration. Films prepared from chitosan solutions, through solvent-casting, were used to prepare TENGs. The power output of the TENGs increased with higher concentrations of AA used in the chitosan dissolution process. Similarly, the residual AA content in the dried films also increased with higher initial AA concentrations. Additionally, hot-pressing of the films significantly improves the TENG power output due to the decrease in morphological defects of the films. It was demonstrated that a good selection of the acid concentration not only facilitates the dissolution of chitosan but also plays a key role in defining the properties of the resulting solutions and films, thereby directly impacting the performance of the TENGs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chitin- and Chitosan-Based Hydrogels (2nd Edition))
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10 pages, 3184 KiB  
Communication
High-Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on PVDF Nanofibers Modified by a Charge Control Agent n-Propyl Gallate
by Chao Li, Xueying Yang, Xin Tang, Ying Yang, Linjiang Shen, Dawei Gu and Mustafa Eginligil
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3089; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133089 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 359
Abstract
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), as an emerging energy harvesting device, can efficiently convert the weak mechanical energy in the environment into electrical energy, demonstrating significant potential in self-powered systems. In this study, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber films mixed with a small amount of n-propyl [...] Read more.
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), as an emerging energy harvesting device, can efficiently convert the weak mechanical energy in the environment into electrical energy, demonstrating significant potential in self-powered systems. In this study, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber films mixed with a small amount of n-propyl gallate (PG) were prepared by using the electrospinning technique, and TENGs were fabricated based on these films. Unexpectedly, experimental results showed that PG (with 0.5–2.5 wt%) did not affect the β phase of the PVDF. However, the TENG based on PVDF/PG composite nanofiber film with 1 wt% PG (PG1-TENG) exhibited large output values of 334 V, 4.36 μA, and 78.4 nC for output voltage, current, and transferred charge, respectively, with a power density of 5.27 W/m2, which highlights ~60% improvement in output voltage over pristine PVDF-TENG. This observation was attributed to the unique charge regulation ability of PG, without altering PVDF’s β phase. Furthermore, application potential of PG1-TENG was demonstrated by powering up an LCD calculator and 480 LEDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology)
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