Recent advances in aerogel-based triboelectric nanogenerators: working principles, fabrication strategies, performance optimization, and applications

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) represent a promising technology for converting mechanical energy into electricity, offering innovative solutions to the problems of distributed energy supply and powering microelectronic devices. In recent years, aerogels have attracted considerable attention as ideal building blocks for high-performance TENGs owing to their three-dimensional porous structures, high specific surface areas, and excellent compressibility. These properties have driven significant breakthroughs in device performance, such as open-circuit voltages exceeding 600 V and power densities reaching 116 W m⁻², demonstrating outstanding energy conversion efficiency and structural adaptability. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in aerogel-based TENGs, including their fundamental principles, fabrication methods, performance optimization strategies, and diverse applications. First, the distinctive advantages and working mechanisms of aerogel-based TENGs are introduced, followed by a comprehensive discussion of preparation methods (including sol–gel processing, electrospinning, and 3D printing) and performance optimization strategies based on different aerogel compositions. Meanwhile, the applications of aerogel-based TENGs in energy harvesting, human-motion monitoring, healthcare monitoring, environmental monitoring, human–machine interaction, and other related fields are discussed. In addition, the challenges and future development prospects of aerogel-based TENGs are also envisioned, aiming to promote their continued advancement. We believe this comprehensive review will be helpful to inspire the design and fabrication of multifunctional aerogels for advanced TENGs.