Achieving 87% of Theoretical Output Charge Density by Optimizing Charge Behaviors in...

Triboelectric charge behaviors, including the generation, storage, and dissipation, play a pivotal role in determining the output charge density of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). While numerous factors influence these behaviors, prior research has predominantly focused on individual parameters, often overlooking the interplay of multiple factors and their collective impact on output charge density. This study elucidates the underlying mechanism through which trade-offs among charge behaviors influence TENG performance by systematically investigating key parameters, including trap state density, relative dielectric constant, leakage current density, dielectric loss, and the effective work function of the tribo-dielectric layer. To optimize TENG performance, a polydimethylsiloxane/CaCu₃Ti₄O₁₂ (PDMS/CCTO) composite membrane was employed as the tribo-dielectric layer, integrated with an external charge excitation strategy. The resulting external charge excitation TENG (ECE-TENG) achieved an output charge density reaching 87% of the theoretical maximum, surpassing previously reported values in the literature. Furthermore, the optimized ECE-TENG demonstrated practical utility by sustainably powering an electrochromic membrane for indoor light and temperature regulation. This work provides a comprehensive analysis of the synergistic effects arising from trade-offs among multiple factors, offering valuable insights for enhancing TENG output performance. The findings present a promising framework for future optimization strategies in triboelectric energy harvesting.