Triboelectric nanogenerator shows promise for wearables

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Researchers in South Korea have developed a gel polymer-based triboelectric nanogenerator that generates electricity via body movement to power wearable electronics.

The GPE-TENG can stretch up to 375 per cent of its original size
The GPE-TENG can stretch up to 375 per cent of its original size - AdobeStock

Developed by a team at Dongguk University-Seoul, the device can stretch up to 375 per cent of its original size and withstand mechanical deformations, making it suitable for wearable electronics. 

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) convert mechanical energy such as body movement to electrical energy and can be used to power wearables instead of using batteries. 

Most TENGs used in wearable applications incorporate a triboelectric material attached to an electrode. However, one of the challenges has been finding flexible electrode materials that can move seamlessly with the human body.

Now, a research team led by Professor Jung Inn Sohn has developed a gel polymer electrode-based triboelectric nanogenerator (GPE-TENG) that is stretchable, semi-transparent, and durable. The team’s findings are detailed here in the Chemical Engineering Journal.

“We report an in-situ curing strategy to develop a stretchable, semi-transparent, and durable GPE-TENG through enhanced interfacial bonding between the ionic polymer gel and ecoflex layers,” Prof. Sohn said in a statement.

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TENGs