Recent advances in enhancing the output performance of liquid-solid triboelectric nanogenerator (L-S TENG): Mechanisms, materials, and structures

• Published in: Nano energy 2024-12, Vol.131, p.110191, Article 110191
• Main Authors: Xu, Wei, Chen, Qingyun, Ren, Qingying, Li, Jinze, Chen, Qiumeng, Zhu, Chen, Xie, Yannan, Li, Wei
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bulk effect; Direct current; Energy harvestor; Hybrid structure; Liquid-solid triboelectric nanogenerator; Surface tribo-charge density
• ISSN: 2211-2855
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2024.110191

The liquid-solid triboelectric nanogenerator (L-S TENG) has garnered significant attention due to its efficacy in harvesting liquid kinetic energy across various modalities such as droplet impinging, wave motion, and water flow. Its appeal lies in its attributes of cost-effectiveness, ease of fabrication, and seamless integration. Despite its inception in 2013, advancements in enhancing its output performance have been sluggish, impeding its practical utility. However, recent research pivoting towards the bulk effect has revitalized interest, particularly in optimizing the top electrode configuration. Novel working mechanisms have been proposed, yielding remarkable output enhancements surpassing conventional single electrode or freestanding modes. Concurrently, strides in material engineering techniques and innovative structural designs have bolstered surface charge density, ensuring sustained operation in adverse conditions and facilitating composite energy harvesting. This review systematically delves into these emerging working mechanisms, material engineering methodologies, and structural innovations within the realm of L-S TENG, furnishing a comprehensive technical roadmap for future endeavors aimed at augmenting its output performance. [Display omitted] •We systematically discussed emerging novel mechanisms of L-S TENGs with a focus on top electrode configurations.•Recent advancements in the theoretical foundation of liquid-solid contact electrification have been reviewed.•Material engineering progress aimed at enhancing output and stability has been comprehensively reviewed.•Emerging structures such as hybrid designs have been examined to stimulate innovative approaches for output enhancement.