High-Current Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on TiO2-Decorated PVDF Membrane via Atomic Layer Deposition for
Duy Linh Vu1, Pham Thi Lanh2, Thi Thuong Nguyen3
1Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Phenikaa School of Engineering, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|January 15, 2026
Summary
We developed a novel direct-current triboelectric nanogenerator (DC-TENG) using a TiO2-modified PVDF membrane. This high-performance device efficiently converts mechanical energy and functions as a self-powered humidity sensor, even in humid conditions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Energy Harvesting
Background:
- Direct-current triboelectric nanogenerators (DC-TENGs) face challenges in performance and reliability, especially in humid environments.
- Developing robust materials for efficient energy conversion and sensing is crucial for advanced electronics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a high-performance DC-TENG with enhanced reliability in humid conditions.
- To create a multifunctional material platform for both energy harvesting and environmental sensing.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a TiO2-modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) porous fiber (PTPF) membrane using electrospinning, vapor-phase infiltration (VPI), and atomic layer deposition (ALD).
- Characterization of the PTPF membrane's structure and electrical properties.
- Evaluation of the DC-TENG's performance in terms of output current, voltage, and power density.
- Assessment of the device's humidity-sensing capabilities and stability.
Main Results:
- The PTPF10-TENG exhibited a 5.4-fold improvement in electrical performance compared to the unmodified PVDF membrane.
- Achieved a peak current of 0.72 mA, output voltage of 1.79 V, and maximum power density of 27.3 µW/cm².
- Demonstrated linear humidity sensing with a sensitivity of 0.0134 mA/%RH (R² = 0.981) in the 40-100% RH range.
Conclusions:
- The developed PTPF membrane serves as a versatile platform for efficient DC-TENGs and self-powered humidity sensors.
- The integration of VPI and ALD offers a promising strategy for fabricating high-performance nanogenerators for wearable electronics and intelligent monitoring systems.
- The PTPF-based DC-TENG shows potential for reliable operation and multifunctional applications in diverse environmental conditions.
