Dielectric enhancement by inorganic nano-fillers for triboelectric optimization

Abstract

Polymer composites integrating inorganic nanofillers with organic polymers demonstrate enhanced dielectric properties and multifunctional capabilities, offering significant potential for applications in flexible wearable self-powered devices, human–machine interfaces, and health monitoring systems. The performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) is closely linked to the dielectric properties of these composites. Enhancing the dielectric constant of triboelectric materials can significantly increase surface charge density, while reducing dielectric loss and improving dielectric breakdown strength can enhance charge storage capacity. Notably, the incorporation of inorganic dielectric nanofillers represents the most straightforward approach to optimize the dielectric properties of triboelectric layers. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the relationship between TENG performance and dielectric enhancement, as well as the dielectric enhancement mechanisms associated with various types of inorganic materials. Furthermore, it systematically summarizes optimization strategies to address challenges such as particle agglomeration and interfacial incompatibility. Finally, the review explores the functional applications enabled by integrating inorganic nanofillers into TENGs, highlighting their potential in advancing next-generation green energy technologies.