Unveiling the waveform feature enhancement strategy of a triboelectric signal by exploring a unique one- and two-dimensional composite structural interface

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG)-based sensors have emerged as transformative technologies for energy harvesting and self-powered sensing. Enhancing the waveform characteristics of triboelectric signals is crucial for improving sensing accuracy. Here, we report a TENG-based vibration sensor employing a polymer-encapsulated metal conductor, guided by a unique one- and two-dimensional composite structural interface to enrich signal waveform features. An ethyl cellulose-modified electroless copper-plated nonwoven substrate was used as the inner electrode, subsequently encapsulated in a low-modulus polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix to fabricate the device. Upon contact with external stimuli, including vibration waves and diverse material surfaces, the overlap of electron clouds at the electrode/PDMS interface reduces the energy barrier, facilitating electron transfer and generating triboelectric signals. Notably, the multidimensional electrode structure produces signals with richer, subtle features, which can be effectively captured by machine learning algorithms to extract detailed information about the stimuli. This work provides an innovative approach for enhancing triboelectric waveform features and demonstrates a high-accuracy tactile sensor with potential for advancing sustainable and intelligent sensing technologies.