A layered double hydroxides/MXene composite based triboelectric nanogenerator for energy harvesting and self-powered electroplating applications

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions has spurred research into advanced energy-harvesting technologies, with triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) emerging as a promising option for converting ambient mechanical energy into electrical power. The present study explores the potential of a novel composite material comprising nickel–aluminum layered double hydroxides (NiAl-LDH) and MXene (Ti₃C₂) to improve TENG performance. Integrating highly conductive, high-surface-area two-dimensional (2D) MXenes with multifunctional 2D layered double hydroxides (LDHs) leverages their synergistic properties to enhance charge generation and transfer efficiency, achieving an impressive power density of 36.9 W m⁻², the highest reported for LDH-based TENGs. In addition to advancing energy harvesting, the TENG device was utilized to design a self-powered electroplating system. Here, energy harvested by the TENG from mechanical motion was stabilized through a power management circuit and used to drive an electrochemical process, successfully coating copper onto metal objects. The presented work paves the way for eco-friendly, sustainable manufacturing, showcasing the potential of TENGs for powering small-scale electrochemical tasks without relying on external power supplies. The results of this study highlight the versatility and promise of NiAl-LDH/MXene-based TENGs for a wide range of energy-harvesting and industrial applications.