Interface-engineered, multifunctional wood composites via recyclable solvent processing for ultra-durable triboelectric energy harvesting

Abstract

Wood is a lightweight, renewable architectural material; however, its low polarity and declining stability under repeated friction significantly hinder its practical deployment in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for intelligent residential system. Here, we present an interfacial engineering strategy that promotes in situ uniformly dense growth of metal organic framework (MOF) on the wood surface by leveraging an ionic liquid to create a porous ionogel matrix. This approach effectively reconstructs the wood surface microstructure, promoting strong interfacial adhesion between the lignocellulosic matrix and MOF crystals, thereby enhancing the mechanical strength (109.4 MPa), impact resistance (96.6 kJ m⁻²), wear resistance, and thermal stability of wood. TENGs fabricated using MLFW demonstrate stable electrical output over more than 100 000 contact-separation cycles. This work not only introduces a novel and scalable strategy for the value-added functionalization of wood offering promising opportunities for sustainable energy harvesting and smart control applications in next-generation intelligent residential environments but also demonstrates a thoughtful integration of green chemistry principles by utilizing renewable lignocellulosic feedstocks, minimal and recyclable solvents, energy-efficient processing via microwave and ambient-condition MOF growth, and modular design that supports reusability and upcycling. The approach directly supports the development of circular, smart material systems aligned with sustainable electronics.