Innovative Technology for Self‐Powered Sensors: Triboelectric Nanogenerators

Abstract

Internet ofThings and wearable technology's quick development have opened up a vast market for sensor systems. However, typical sensors' external power supplies' short lifespan and expensive maintenance restrict them from being used more widely. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), a recently created mechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing device, show enormous promise to get over these restrictions. TENG can be used not only to power sensors instead of conventional chemical batteries but also be utilized to actualize sensing by taking advantage of the unique characteristics of the friction layer itself. Triboelectric nanogenerators efficiently provide crucial infrastructure for a new generation of sensing devices that gather data using several self-powered sensors in abundance. The recent progress in the development of TENGs applied in the sensor field is reviewed. First, the working mechanisms of solid-solid TENG and solid-liquid TENG are introduced. Subsequently, the development of TENG-based sensing systems and their application progress in self-powered temperature sensors, self-powered pressure sensors, self-powered humidity sensors, self-powered atmosphere sensors, self-powered wireless sensors, interface wetting status monitoring, solution property monitoring, and friction condition monitoring are highlighted. Finally, current challenges and open opportunities are discussed.

Advancements in Bio-inspired Self-Powered Wireless Sensors: Materials, Mechanisms, and Biomedical Applications

“…300 More importantly, the power density of triboelectric nanogenerators can reach 500 W m −2 with a conversion efficiency of more than 50%. 302 The extraordinary ability of triboelectric nanogenerators to harvest energy at low frequencies has made them suitable for the design of biophysical sensors that use the energy generated from human biophysical actions such as breathing movements to supply their power. In this section, we will introduce the most common types of triboelectric nanogenerators along with their examples.…”

“…In fact, the key advantage of these nanogenerators is the high efficiency at low frequencies of common free energy sources such as human movement and water waves. , In addition, the performance of these nanogenerators is independent of the operating frequency, which makes them very efficient for multifrequency operation . More importantly, the power density of triboelectric nanogenerators can reach 500 W m –2 with a conversion efficiency of more than 50% . The extraordinary ability of triboelectric nanogenerators to harvest energy at low frequencies has made them suitable for the design of biophysical sensors that use the energy generated from human biophysical actions such as breathing movements to supply their power.…”

Smart Printed Triboelectric Wearable Sensor with High Performance for Glove-Based Motion Detection

“…Applying cutting-edge technologies, such as smart wearables, has paved the way for a more convenient and fascinating life, accelerating the demand for portable and user-friendly devices. − These modern wearables leverage state-of-the-art technology, incorporating advanced sensors, smart connectivity, and innovative design to offer users a dynamic and tailored user experience that goes well beyond traditional wearables, redefining how individuals engage with technology daily . Hand-motion detectors, particularly glove-based interfaces, provide intuitive communication between users and machines, opening new possibilities for diverse applications. − In this regard, it is imperative to adopt portable and flexible sensors to fulfill the requirements of effective, reliable, and high-precision signal transduction between the user and the device. − …”

Recent progress towards smart transportation systems using triboelectric nanogenerators

“…Despite their notable efficiency, wireless sensor systems still necessitate the supply of external power to operate [17,18]. This leads to a capacity limit, inconvenient charging or replacement, and pollution of the environment [19,20]. Consequently, the constraints of external power sources may be advantageously addressed by means of self-powered sensors.…”