Utilization of self-powered electrochemical systems: Metallic nanoparticle synthesis and lactate detection

• Published in: Nano energy 2017-12, Vol.42, p.241-248
• Main Authors: Chen, Chuan-Hua, Lee, Pin-Wei, Tsao, Yu-Hsiang, Lin, Zong-Hong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2211-2855
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2017.10.064

Since the introduction of the first expounded triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) in 2012, the theoretical and practical aspects of the TENG have been researched as an alternative energy harvesting technology to convert mechanical energy into electricity efficiently. Numerous self-powered sensing systems have adopted the TENG as a power source to further explore its versatile applications toward different targets. In this study, we employed a TENG to replace a traditional power supply for synthesizing different metallic nanoparticles using an electrochemical approach. Carbon fibers were adopted as the conductive substrates to grow the metallic nanoparticles, where the size and density of the nanoparticles on carbon fibers can be controlled by the electric output of the TENG. Additionally, we demonstrated that the as-prepared carbon modified and integrated with the TENG to construct a wearable self-powered sensing system exhibited significant selectivity and sensitivity toward lactate detection. Furthermore, the design of the sensing unit was favorable regarding its adaptability and flexibility to fit human body shapes and postures. As demonstrated in this study, the as-prepared self-powered sensing system could detect the lactate concentration in human perspiration, which can be an ideal wearable device for end users who seek real-time monitoring of their physical condition. This study concludes with a proposal for noninvasive biosensors, which provide boundless potential for future cross-field applications. We substantiate that the combination of a triboelectric nanogenerator together with a specialized carbon fiber-based lactate sensor is practical to work in self-powered health-managing equipment that features its feasibility, veracity, and portability. [Display omitted] •The self-powered electrochemical systems based on triboelectric nanogenerators as the power source have been successfully demonstrated.•The novel application of self-powered electrochemical systems for the synthesis of size-controlled monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles is validated.•In addition, the lightweight and fully self-powered electrochemical sensing system empowers the populace to manage and self-monitor lactate concentration in sweat anytime and anywhere.•The wearable self-powered sensing system requires mere seconds to generate adequate electricity before driving the electrochemical reaction to complete lactate detection.