A biomimetic ant silk fiber-based triboelectric nanogenerator: toward advanced tactile sensing technology†

Integrating bio-inspired materials into TENGs marks a significant step toward sustainable and eco-friendly energy harvesting systems, with promising applications in robotics, wearable electronics, and human–machine interfaces. In the present study, a biomimetic triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is fabricated from a rare silk fiber mat (SFM). The robust properties of SFM are attributed to proteins secreted by weaver ant larvae, which are rich in amine and hydroxyl groups. The chemical resistance and structural integrity of the SFM are confirmed using characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. SFM is employed as the tribopositive material and is paired with polyurethane as the tribonegative material, which efficiently generates an output voltage of 160.47 V, current of 33.58 μA, and peak power of 15.15 mW at a load resistance of 30 MΩ. The SFM-TENG is capable of powering 80 green LEDs, charging capacitors, has wind sensitivity, and functions as a self-powered touch sensor, generating distinguishable electrical signals in response to various materials and individual touches. Thus the current work expands the scope of biomaterials, offering practical advancements in developing energy-harvesting devices for self-powered tactile sensors.