Perspectives of Material Optimization Strategies for High-Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerators

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have unique advantages in harvesting low-frequency irregular mechanical energy, and their output mainly depends on the surface charge density. Inhibiting the loss of triboelectric charges and optimizing the dielectric properties of materials are effective methods for boosting the surface charge density. Several optimization strategies for triboelectric layers, such as surface modification, insertion of intermediate layers, and optimization of dielectric properties, have been reported to improve the output performance of TENGs. In this perspective, first, the material optimization strategies for improving the output performance of TENGs are discussed. Then, in terms of output enhancement, the problems that need to be solved in the future are proposed. Finally, the future roads of high-performance TENGs for truly realizing efficient mechanical-energy harvesting are discussed. Triboelectric nanogenerators have unique advantages in harvesting low-frequency irregular mechanical energy, however, limited by low output performance. Inhibiting the loss of triboelectric charges and optimizing the dielectric properties of materials are effective methods to boost surface charge density. This perspective clarifies the material optimization strategies of triboelectric nanogenerators to improve the output performance.image