Recent advances in the performance modulation of polyurethane-based triboelectric materials for wearable devices

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) offer a promising technology for developing applications in the wearable field due to their varied structural configurations, high energy conversion efficiency, and straightforward manufacturing processes. Triboelectric materials serve as essential components that significantly influence the performance of TENGs. Polyurethane (PU)-based self-powered wearable electronics exhibit notable benefits, including flexibility, comfort, and resistance to wear. In particular, the optimization of friction polarity and charge distribution in PU-based triboelectric materials is critical, as these factors directly impact the overall efficacy of the PU-based TENGs. Herein, a comprehensive summary is presented to elucidate the modulation of the electrical output properties of PU-based triboelectric materials and the emerging applications of PU-based TENGs. Firstly, the effects of physical and chemical methods on the triboelectric positive polarity, triboelectric negativity polarity, charge density, and charge transfer efficiency of PU-based triboelectric materials will be systematically discussed in terms of two main aspects: triboelectric polarity and charge distribution. Furthermore, the applications of self-powered wearable electronics made of PU-based TENGs in the fields of medical health and tactile sensing are also introduced. The discussion culminates in a summary and an exploration of potential future directions in this field.