Empowering high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators: advanced materials strategies

Abstract

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) has heightened the urgency for advanced research in energy harvesting technologies. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) present a promising approach for converting high-entropy mechanical energy into electrical energy, particularly excelling in powering miniaturized and distributed electronic devices. Triboelectric materials are the fundamental component of high-performance TENGs. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the mechanisms and performance limitations of alternating-current (AC) and direct-current (DC) TENGs in detail. Furthermore, advanced materials-related strategies for high-performance AC-TENGs and DC-TENGs are thoroughly reviewed. Finally, it discusses emerging challenges and highlights opportunities for future research, offering valuable guidelines for the development of high-performance TENG technologies.