Hand clapping inspired integrated multilayer hybrid nanogenerator as a wearable and universal power source for portable electronics

Abstract

We report a human skin-based wearable and hybrid triboelectric-piezoelectric nanogenerator (HTEPENG) for harvesting biomechanical energy from hand clapping to eliminate the need for batteries to drive portable electronic devices. Through smart integration of polyimide encapsulated polarized polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film between two nanopillar polydimethylsiloxane (n-PDMS) films, the hybrid nanogenerator can produce two triboelectric outputs and one piezoelectric output simultaneously upon a single clap. The output performances of the HTEPENG have been optimized through systematic analysis and experimental validation of the surface morphology and coupling effect of interfacing materials. The as-fabricated HTEPENG device delivers a peak power density of 3.7 W/m2 at a matched resistance of 23.08 MΩ. After the use of a custom-designed power conversion and management system (PCMS), the nanogenerator was able to drive a commercial pedometer and successfully recharged a trimmer, pocket Wi-Fi router, and smartphone individually, which might speed up commercialization of the wearable nanogenerators. Furthermore, the HTEPENG possesses a unique characteristic of modulated multi-level outputs, which has the potential to bring extensive application prospects in the field of logic devices, power supply, prosthetics, antistatic protection, and self-powered sensor networks. Even though clapping is a natural human activity to applaud somebody which is very common in many environments like a concert, theatre, and stadium, it is also well known to improve the overall human health by improving the blood circulation to various organs. Thereby, other than serving as a universal power source, the proposed hybrid nanogenerator can promote additional health benefit for the human.