Dual-Surface-Modified Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Polymer Microcone Array and Its Application to Impact Visual...

Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is a predominantly utilized negative triboelectric material in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Its surface topography and synergistic interaction with positive triboelectric materials significantly impact the performance of TENGs. Here, we propose a simple and cost-effective approach to promote the performance of a dual-surface-modified TENG using microwave-structured aluminum (MW-Al) together with microcone-structured polydimethylsiloxane (MC-PDMS). Laser-engraved molds were employed to cold-imprint the MC-Al and pattern the MC-PDMS. Subsequently, the impact of the heights of microcones generated under varying laser powers on the performance of TENGs was explored. The output performance of the MW-MC-TENG significantly increased with microcone heights from 0 to 228 μm. The MW-MC228-TENG, with the highest cone heights, can produce the best open-circuit voltage of 157 V and a short-circuit current of 78.5 µA, resulting in a more than 37% improvement compared to the TENG using flat polymer. Furthermore, the MW-MC228-TENG showed a power density of 16.4 W/m², sufficient to power 198 LEDs. Finally, the proposed TENG was integrated as a sensor into an impact warning system. We triggered a voice-visual warning when the TENG impacted, proving its potential for intelligent home safety monitoring.