Water wave energy-harvesting accordion structure triboelectric nanogenerators for self-driven corrosion protection

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have become a promising energy harvesting technology due to robustness, low cost and scalability. In this work, a novel oscillating water energy harvesting device (OS-TENG) inspired by the accordion structure is reported. The triboelectric material with interlayer structure is constructed by electrospinning technology, and the spatial efficiency of device is enhanced by stacking U-sheet structure and array accordion-like power module, enabling the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy. At the same time, the operational mechanism of device is comprehensively analyzed, and the parameters such as the angle of elastomer are systematically optimized. Under a condition of 3 Hz, the OS-TENG achieves a current output of 70 μA and a power density of 124 mW/m², while maintaining exceptional electrical output stability over a period of 10 days. Owing to superior performance, the OS-TENG is capable of powering LED lights, thermometers and wireless signal transmission systems. More importantly, it is also applicable to electrochemical processes including water electrolysis for hydrogen production and cathodic protection of metals, the potential of 304SS is decreased 250 mV, which shows obvious corrosion protection effect. This work provides a promising approach for large-scale water wave energy harvesting and self-driven electrochemistry without external power sources.