Latest Advances in Self-Powered Tactile Sensors Based on Triboelectric Effect: Materials, Structures, and Applications.

Abstract

With the rapid development of flexible electronics and IoT technology, self-powered sensing has emerged as a research hotspot in wearable devices and intelligent human-machine interaction due to its ability to operate without an external power supply, offering significant value for sustainable energy applications. Among these technologies, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG)-based (SPTS) exhibit great potential in real-time health monitoring, soft robotics, and smart interactive interfaces, owing to their efficient mechanical energy harvesting, high sensitivity, and structural diversity. Recent breakthroughs in functional materials and microstructure design have further enhanced the overall performance of SPTS. This review systematically summarizes key advances and challenges in material selection, structural design, and applications of SPTS. It begins by explaining the working mechanism and energy conversion process of TENG, discusses strategies for new material development and output enhancement, as well as methods to improve sensitivity, stability, and environmental adaptability. Furthermore, it analyzes structure-performance relationships in terms of micro/nano-structuring, flexible/stretchable design, and system-level integration. Emphasis is placed on innovative applications in medical health monitoring and smart industrial manufacturing. Finally, technical challenges related to material optimization, structural fabrication, and signal transmission are addressed, along with potential solutions and future research directions.