Improved flexible triboelectric nanogenerator based on 3D X-shaped fabric without spaced yarn for power supply and motion monitoring application

The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy, providing a novel solution to the power supply problem in smart textiles. However, traditional 3D spacer fabric TENGs face limitations such as inefficient charge transport and non-uniform electric field distribution due to the presence of spacer yarns. To address these issues, this study developed a novel three-dimensional woven X-shaped TENG (3D X-TENG) without spacer yarn. Through systematic structural optimization, nine configurations with varying interlayer widths and heights were fabricated. At an interlayer width and height of 2.5 × 1.2 cm, the 3D X-TENG achieved optimal electrical performance. Under an external force of 40 N at 1.5 Hz, it demonstrated a short-circuit current of 198.62 nA, an open-circuit voltage of 19.82 V, and a peak power density of 0.399 mW/m². Furthermore, the 3D X-TENG exhibited exceptional sensing performance, stability, and durability, maintaining consistent electrical output after 10,800 testing cycles and six weeks of indoor storage. By integrating flexible textile materials with TENG technology, this work overcame key limitations of traditional 3D spacer fabric TENGs, significantly enhancing electrical performance and paving the way for advanced applications of smart textiles in power supply and motion monitoring.