Ultrahigh current density DC triboelectric generator for energy harvesting and self-powered sensing

Nguyen Quang Tan, Van Tam Tran, Vu Duy Linh, Ahn Jee Hwan, Choi Won Mook, Ahn Kyoung Kwan

Publisher

This study presents an advanced metal-organic polymer-based heterojunction triboelectric generator (MOPH-TEG) with ultrahigh current density, designed to efficiently convert mechanical and water-enabled energy into DC power. MOPH-TEG features water-infused porous cellulose (WIPC) layered with carbon fiber (CF) sheets, sandwiched between aluminum and copper electrodes. The device generates high-energy charges through mechanical deformation, leveraging the Schottky junction at the Al/WIPC interface for efficient charge separation and directional transfer. Performance is enhanced by reduced Schottky barrier height, increased charge density, and lower resistance in the compressed WIPC. The CF layer improves built-in voltage and lowers ohmic resistance. Experimental results indicate that factors like applied stress, compression frequency, water content in WIPC, WIPC size, and CF thickness significantly affect current, while voltage primarily depends on electrode materials. Under optimal conditions, MOPH-TEG achieved a peak current of 48.6 mA, current density of 121.5 A/m², and power density of 7.05 W/m2, showing significant improvements over previous designs. Although the output voltage is low, connecting 10 cells in series boosted it to 5.8 V, sufficient to power devices like calculators and LEDs. Notably, a series of 10 cells successfully powered a seawater-splitting system, producing hydrogen after charging a capacitor to 4.5 V. Beyond energy harvesting, MOPH-TEG also functions as a pressure and vibration sensor, with strong linear correlations (R² ≈ 0.99). These findings highlight MOPH-TEG’s potential for sustainable energy harvesting and practical applications.

Publisher: Nano Energy

Article number: 111291

ISSN (Print): 22112855

Keywords

  • DC triboelectric generator
  • Hierarchical porous polymer
  • Material work function
  • Metal-organic polymer-based heterojunction
  • Schottky junction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Materials Science (all)
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Publication year

2025

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