Advanced flexible self-healing triboelectric nanogenerators for applications in complex environments

Abstract

With the advent of the smart era, the demand for clean energy is rising, and flexible triboelectric nanogenerators (F-TENGs) based on elastomers have garnered significant attention. Based on the principles of electrostatic induction and coupling, F-TENGs can convert mechanical motion into electrical energy and are widely utilized in wearable devices and blue energy. F-TENGs offer a simple design, ease of manufacturing, and flexible usage scenarios. However, several weaknesses still limit their development. For example, F-TENG materials cannot recover from fatigue damage and are prone to output performance degradation under frequent friction or complex external conditions, leading to failure. To address these issues, researchers have explored the use of self-healable flexible polymer-based friction layers and electrodes. This review will provide a detailed summary of the key scientific and technological challenges faced by F-TENGs in complex and harsh environments, including ambient, high and low temperatures, high humidity, and strong acids and bases. Furthermore, the detailed research progress addressing these issues and the future development of F-TENGs will also be presented and explored. This paper aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for in-depth research and broad applications of flexible TENGs.