The Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Dual Functions of Sensing and Power Generation Based on Electrospinning

Abstract

A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) can effectively capture human mechanical energy and power wearable electronic devices, reducing the need for frequent charging or battery replacement. However, traditional sensor preparation processes are gradually unable to meet people’s needs for the portability, breathability, and biocompatibility of sensors. We prepared a high breathability flexible triboelectric nanogenerator (RB-TENG) using electrospinning technology. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) was selected as the material for preparing the electron gain side friction layer of RB-TENG, while a conductive solution was prepared using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and carbon black (CB) as its electron losing side friction layer and electrode layer. To enhance the output performance of the RB-TENG, we increased the surface charge density of its friction layer by doping carbon black (CB) into the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) solution. We then evaluated how varying CB concentrations influenced the device’s output. Our findings revealed that when the CB concentration reached 1.2 wt %, the RB-TENG achieved its optimal performance, with peak open-circuit voltage and transfer charge values of 149.2 V and 176.5 nC, respectively. Additionally, the RB-TENG demonstrated the ability to detect different physical states of the human body while efficiently harvesting the generated energy. By integrating a capacitor conversion circuit, the mechanical energy produced during daily human activities can be efficiently captured and converted into electrical energy. This significantly enhances the efficiency of RB-TENG in charging capacitors, enabling the rapid powering of microelectronic devices. The RB-TENG-based energy harvesting and intelligent sensing system we designed holds significant theoretical and practical value for wearable electronics. The technology presented in this paper offers promising applications for a wide range of wearable devices.