All-electrospun polylactic acid/chitosan beaded porous nanofibers based single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerator...

Integrating outstanding electrical responsiveness and multiple practical functions, the self-powering electronic skin (e-skin) on the basis of single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerators (STENGs) shows remarkable competitiveness in next-generation energy, sensing and human-computer interaction applications. To fulfill the sensitivity, breathability, comfort and safety of STENG-based e-skin, the structural designs and material selections of its friction layer are crucial. In this study, a highly sensitive and breathable all-PLA/CS nanofiber STENG (PC-STENG) based e-skin with antimicrobial properties and good biocompatibility was prepared in large quantities by using spherical section free surface electrospinning (SSFSE) technique. The unique beaded porous nanofiber structure of this e-skin gave it a multilevel porous structure from micron to nanometer scale, which provided a larger specific surface area for its pressure response and contact charging, resulting in its excellent voltage output, durability, and multifunctionality. The hierarchical porous PC-STENG based e-skin achieved an output voltage of 96.95 V and an output power of 18.076 mW/m², and demonstrated excellent stability and durability in 3000 cycles. This enabled the e-skin to not only capture the energy generated by the tiny movements of the human body, but also efficiently and in real time monitor the physiological features and movement status of full body.