Honeycomb Inspired Independent-cell Droplet-based Electricity Generator Array

Abstract

The transistor-inspired Droplet-based Electricity Generator (DEG) significantly enhances the energy collection efficiency from single-position droplets. However, the design of the DEG arrays combining high output performance and large-scale integration under multi-position droplet impacts remains a challenge. Inspired by the unique structure of the honeycomb, we developed an Independent-Cell Droplet-based Electricity Generator (IC-DEG) array that allows for high-efficiency and stable droplet energy harvesting under multi-position droplet impacts. Each independent cell is a transistor-inspired Tubular Droplet-based Electricity Generator (T-DEG), which ensures the high electrical output of the IC-DEG array. The honeycomb-like arrangement improves the space utilization, accelerates the detachment of droplets, and avoids electrical interference among independent cells, all of which further enhance the IC-DEG array performance. The average peak open-circuit voltage of the IC-DEG array is 265.2 V, and 96.6% of peak voltages exceed 200 V, almost double that of a traditional planar array. Moreover, the average droplet detachment time of the IC-DEG array is 44.8 ms, 41.4% shorter than the traditional planar array. The enhanced performance of the IC-DEG array is further demonstrated by the high speed of charging capacitors and the capability of driving electronic devices. This study provides a promising design concept for large-scale droplet energy harvesting devices.