Gravity triboelectric nanogenerator for the steady harvesting of natural wind energy

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), as a renewable energy harvesting technology, has been verified as an effective approach for converting mechanical energy into electric energy. In a natural environment, the unsteadiness of TENG energy harvesting restricts the application and development of TENG. From this perspective, a gravity triboelectric nanogenerator (G-TENG) is developed for the first time to convert natural wind energy into steady electric energy, achieving the steady harvesting of natural wind energy. The G-TENG mainly comprises an energy input module, energy storage module, and energy output module. Random wind energy is transmitted from the input module to the storage module and converted into gravitational potential energy. Steady electric energy is ultimately obtained from the output module. The standard deviation ( I SD ) of the short-circuit current peaks is under 0.31 μA. Additionally, the fluctuation degree ( I FD ) of the short-circuit current peaks is defined to describe the steady output capability of TENG. I FD of the G-TENG can reach 2.3%. A steady current is thus achieved by the G-TENG in a natural environment. This research provides essential guidance for the steady harvesting of natural energy by the TENG. • Gravity triboelectric nanogenerator (G-TENG) is proposed for the steady harvesting of natural wind energy. • The fluctuation degree ( I FD ) of short-circuit current peaks is defined to describe the steady output capability of TENG. • A commercial thermometer is powered by the G-TENG with the assistance of a bridge rectifier in a natural wind environment.