Piezoelectric and triboelectric synergies in MXene/BaTiO3/PAN composite nanofiber membranes for self-powered sensors

Abstract

Traditional power technologies are constrained by size and endurance, whereas nanogenerators offer lightweight, environmentally friendly, and sustainable energy solutions. In this study, an MXene/BaTiO₃/PAN composite nanofiber membrane was developed using electrospinning technology. The incorporation of BaTiO₃ nanoparticles and two-dimensional MXene flakes significantly enhanced the piezoelectric properties of the PAN matrix, resulting in an output voltage of 6.45 V and a current of 308 nA-approximately four times higher than that of pure PAN. Notably, piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) were integrated into one single device, addressing the low output and stability issues of traditional PENGs. The integrated device achieved a higher stable output voltage of 12–14 V and retained stable performance over 5000 cycles. Moreover, the MXene component endowed the nanofiber membrane with excellent photothermal properties, achieving a temperature rise of 42 °C under 1 W cm⁻² solar irradiation. This demonstrates its potential for human joint photothermal therapy and underscores its value for developing high-performance self-powered sensors and wearable electronic devices.