High Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerators Based on Electrospun PVDF-HFP Composite Fibres

Abstract

The anticipated surge of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its anticipated 200 billion devices by 2025 underscores the importance of innovative low-power energy solutions. Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged at the forefront of this quest due to their capability to convert wasted mechanical energy into electrical power. Characterized by high instantaneous output, extensive material flexibility, and superior open-circuit voltage, TENGs promise robust energy solutions. However, the quest for enhancing their output performance across diverse environments remains a pivotal challenge. Addressing this, recent endeavours have sought to harness the intricacies of material science and nano-engineering. A pioneering approach involved hybridizing nano-scale materials, introducing conductive silver nanowires (AgNWs) and perovskite oxide nanocrystals into an electrospun poly (vinylidene fluoride co hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) matrix, yielding a significant increase in output power. This achievement hinted at the immense potential of TENGs. Building upon this, a subsequent investigation synthesized a unique core-shell structured nanoparticle with perovskite barium zirconium titanate (BZT) at its core and a metallic silver (Ag) shell. Integration of these nanoparticles into the TENGs resulted in a substantial amplification of power output, potentially revolutionizing 6th generation (6G) wireless networks, especially in powering devices like radio frequency identification (RFID) for backscatter communication systems. The final stride in this triad of advancements crafted a novel core-shell fibre through electrospinning. Here, the polystyrene (PS) core, complemented by a PVDF-HFP shell and infused with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets, showcased an unparalleled rise in voltage and current outputs. In sum, this journey through the evolution of TENGs offers a transformative vision, highlighting their potential transition from mere energy harvesters to linchpins in next-generation communication technologies.