Enhancing output efficiency in self-powered hybrid nanogenerators with micro-pyramid surface design using ceramic/polymer film for flexible wearable electronic devices

Abstract

Self-powered sensors are increasingly valued for their eco-friendly and energy-efficient design, making them ideal for sustainable applications. As global energy demand rises and carbon emissions increase, there is a shift toward renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Advanced sustainable energy devices, such as piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators, show promises for capturing untapped energy, supporting the development of portable, green devices. While commercialization of triboelectric materials is limited, they hold strong potential for large-scale energy harvesting. This study investigates how tailored surface topography can enhance the electrical output of a hybrid nanogenerator. We developed a hybrid piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerator (HBNG) using a BaTiO₃-PDMS composite (containing 10–20 vol% barium titanate in polydimethylsiloxane). Micron-sized pyramid structures of 20% BT/PDMS were created on the film through optical lithography, while scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to assess the composite's crystal structure and phase characteristics. Altering the film's surface morphology led to substantial improvements in electrical performance, with voltage increasing from 28 V in the pristine film to 92 V in the micro-pyramid patterned film, and current rising from 2.7 μA to 11.0 μA. The enhanced power density and cyclic test suggests that surface topography optimization is highly effective, supporting long-term cyclic operation, and energy storage in capacitors. This work highlights the potential of surface-engineered nanogenerators in advancing sustainable, self-powered technologies.