Power Management System for Silver Nanoparticles Incorporated Bacterial Cellulose Matrix Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wearable Sensing Applications

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) offer a sustainable route toward self-powered wearable and IoT systems; however, their high output impedance and pulsed electrical characteristics limit efficient energy storage and practical power delivery. Here, a sustainable TENG platform integrating Ag nanoparticle-engineered bacterial cellulose (BC) with a passive buck-type power-management unit (PMU) is demonstrated. Green-synthesized Ag nanoparticles enhance the dielectric properties, surface charge density, mechanical performance, and antibacterial activity against E. coli of the BC tribopositive layer. Paired with PTFE, the BC Ag TENG delivers an open-circuit voltage of 1264 V, a short-circuit current of 60 µA, and a peak power density of 13.53 W m⁻². A self-triggered Zener–SCR buck converter enables controlled charge extraction and impedance transformation, delivering approximately 12 W m⁻² at ∼220 kΩ while improving energy transfer to storage capacitors. Integration with an LTC3588-1 energy-harvesting regulator provides a regulated output suitable for operating low-power electronic devices. The multifunctional platform further demonstrates reversible humidity sensing and biomechanical-motion monitoring. By integrating sustainable material engineering, triboelectric energy harvesting, passive power conditioning, energy storage, and regulated power delivery, this materials–circuit codesign establishes a practical pathway toward multifunctional, self-powered wearable sensing, autonomous electronics, and next-generation IoT systems.