Skin based flexible triboelectric nanogenerators with motion sensing capability

Abstract

This paper presents a novel triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) using outermost layer of human skin i.e. epidermis as an active triboelectric layer for device operation. The device is demonstrated to generate an open circuit voltage of ~90V with mild finger touch. The device uses PDMS nanopillar structures to improve the performance of contact electrification process which causes the charging of two surfaces. The device is demonstrated as a wearable self-powered device which can be used as a motion and activity sensor for a variety of applications.