High powered output flexible aerogel triboelectric nanogenerator under ultrahigh temperature condition

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as promising devices for harvesting low-frequency energy, but its application in high-temperature environments is limited. In this article, a flexible high-temperature resistant fiber substrate material was developed using needled felt and silicon aerogel. This material demonstrated exceptional resistance, withstanding exposure to a butane flame at approximately 1300 ℃ for a minimum of 10 min without experiencing burn-through. Following the application of electrodes and protective encapsulating, a high-temperature resistant silicon aerogel and fiber felts based triboelectric nanogenerator (HTFs-TENG) was successfully created. In addition, we achieved remarkable enhancements in the electrical output performance of the HTFs-TENG by precisely regulating its dielectric properties, resulting in an impressive increase in peak voltage from 17 V to 135 V. The current output increased from 1.4 μA to 6 μA. The HTFs-TENG demonstrated remarkable adaptability, operating effectively at temperatures as high as 275 ℃ and as low as approximately − 75 ℃. Moreover, it showcased an instantaneous power density output of 31.9 mW/m2 under a 100 MΩ resistance load. The HTFs-TENG displayed impressive electrical signal response capabilities at ultralow frequencies (≤1 Hz) across various temperatures and frequencies, positioning it as an ideal self-powered vibration sensor and temperature sensor for diverse generator applications.