Scavenging Energy and Information through Dynamically Regulating the Electrical Double Layer

Abstract

The electrical double layer (EDL) between solids and liquids serves as the primary interface for ionic‐electronic coupling and is pivotal in nanoscale phenomena, governing electric field effects, ion transport, surface interactions, etc. Dynamically regulating the EDL through mechanical or electrostatic methods can influence charge carrier behavior, thereby impacting energy scavenging and storage processes. This regulation enabled efficient energy scavenging by governing ionic migration and optimizing charge carrier concentration at the interface, presenting a novel avenue to achieve efficient energy and information flow. Here, various scavenging energy and information devices through dynamically regulating the EDL are systematically reviewed. They are classified into three groups by regulating the distribution and movement of charge carriers throughout the entire EDL, diffuse layer, and Debye length range. The review provided a comprehensive overview of the operating principles, influencing factors, output characteristics, and typical applications, along with a discussion on future challenges. This holistic examination offers researchers valuable insights for evaluating their applicability in various scenarios.