Omnidirectional Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wide-Speed-Range Wind Energy Harvesting

Abstract

The environmentally friendly harvesting of wind energy is an effective technique for achieving carbon neutrality and a green economy. In this work, a core–shell triboelectric nanogenerator (CS-TENG) for harvesting wind energy is demonstrated and the device structure parameters are optimized. The core–shell structure enables the CS-TENG to respond sensitively to wind from any direction and generate electrical output on the basis of the vertical contact–separation mode. A single device can generate a maximum power density of 0.14 W/m3 and can power 124 light-emitting diodes. In addition, wind energy can be harvested even at a wind speed as low as 2.3 m/s by paralleling CS-TENGs of different sizes. Finally, a self-powered water quality testing system that uses the CS-TENG as its power supply is built. The CS-TENG exhibits the advantages of a simple structure, environmentally friendly materials, low cost, and simple fabrication process. These features are of considerable significance for the development of green energy harvesting devices.

Keywords

• triboelectric nanogenerators
• core–shell structure
• wind energy harvesting
• electronics