Energy augmentation of triboelectric nanogenerators using PDMS–MWCNT composites and their applications in IoT and HMI sensing†

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have become viable self-powered systems, with great potential to satisfy the increasing demand for portable and adaptable power sources. Using these systems, mechanical vibrations from the motion of vehicles, human beings, rain falls, ocean waves, and air flows can be efficiently captured Depending on the triboelectric series, various materials have been used and explored for TENG applications. In this work, we investigated the triboelectric characteristics of spin-coated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite membranes. By adding various concentrations of MWCNTs in PDMS, the charge transfer efficiency was investigated in terms of the current output. At the optimized composition of 0.05 wt% MWCNTs in PDMS, an open-circuit voltage (V_oc) of 110 V and a short-circuit current (I_sc) of 10 μA were observed leading to a power density of nearly 1 W m⁻². Additionally, this composition demonstrated outstanding long-term durability and electrical stability, facilitating energy harvesting during routine activities like jogging and walking using clothing and shoes.