Monolithically integrated ionic triboelectric nanogenerators for deformable energy harvesting and self powered sensing

Abstract

Abstract Stretchable triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have garnered significant attention as wearable power sources by enabling the realization of self-powered systems through integration with other wearable platforms. However, achieving intrinsically stretchable TENGs with stable performance under deformation remains a major challenge, particularly in forming robust dielectric/electrode interfaces and fabricating fully stretchable materials. Here, we propose the intrinsically stretchable ionogel-based TENGs (S-iTENG) with a monolithic structure by directly coating silver nanowires (AgNWs) onto free-standing ionogel. The ionogel serves as the substrate, charge-generating, and trapping layer, simplifying device configuration. Its hydrophilic characteristics improve the wettability of AgNWs and their interfacial adhesion. The optimized S-iTENG exhibits a power density of ~109.8 mW·m− 2, excellent stretchability (~195%), and stable operation even under 80% strain. The practical feasibility of the S-iTENG is demonstrated in self-powered sensory platforms. Overall, these results highlight the significance of monolithic, substrate-free S-iTENG as wearable energy harvesters and key components for future wearable electronics.