Sustainable MgFe2O4/Ag2WO4 nanocomposite for enhanced triboelectric performance and touch sensing in biodegradable PLA-based TENG device

Abstract

The growing environmental concerns surrounding conventional batteries have driven the exploration of sustainable energy solutions, with triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) emerging as a promising alternative for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. However, the widespread adoption of TENGs has been hindered by challenges such as low surface charge density and reduced durability of triboelectric materials. Addressing these issues, this study presents the synthesis of a sustainable MgFe₂O₄-Ag₂WO₄ nanocomposite material, incorporated into a biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) matrix to enhance TENG performance. MgFe₂O₄-Ag₂WO₄ nanocomposites were synthesized using a simple combustion method followed by coprecipitation and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurements, demonstrating excellent structural stability and compatibility with PLA. The resulting PLA nanocomposite films exhibited a maximum dielectric property of 7.3, significantly improving the surface charge density and energy conversion efficiency of the fabricated TENG. Electrical characterization revealed a maximum output voltage of 20.05 V and a current of 1.99 µA, with the device capable of powering an electronic calculator and illuminating 20 LEDs. Furthermore, the TENG device demonstrated effective energy harvesting during human walking and jumping and functioned as a touch sensor in a touch-sensing circuit, blinking an LED as a warning signal. This work provides a sustainable and innovative pathway for developing fully biodegradable, high-performance TENGs for energy harvesting and sensing applications, offering a green alternative for powering small electronics and sensors.