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Dual-Functional Flame-Retardant/Humidity-Resistant Triboelectric Fabric for Self-Powered Fire Hazard Warning and
Kun Zhao1, Yuan Ye1,2, Yaping Liu1
1State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Nonferrous Metals, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou, Gansu730050, P. R. China.
ACS Sensors
|May 4, 2026
Summary
A new fabric-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) offers reliable sensing in harsh conditions. This durable device provides simultaneous fire warning and motion monitoring, enhancing personal safety.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Conventional triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) face limitations in harsh environments due to material flammability and humidity sensitivity.
- Developing robust self-powered sensors is crucial for reliable operation in demanding conditions.
- Existing TENGs struggle with long-term stability and environmental resilience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a durable, fabric-based TENG for simultaneous fire hazard warning and human motion monitoring.
- To enhance TENG performance and environmental tolerance using novel materials.
- To demonstrate the practical applications of the developed TENG in safety systems.
Main Methods:
- Dip-coating polyester (PET) fabric with a novel flame-retardant and corrosion-resistant adhesive, P(DPPO-Si).
- Fabrication of TENG devices using the modified fabric.
- Testing TENG performance under various environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, pH, washing) and operational cycles.
- Developing prototype applications for motion monitoring and fire alarm systems.
Main Results:
- The P(DPPO-Si) coated PET fabric exhibited excellent flame retardancy (LOI of 31.5%) and chemical resistance.
- The resulting TENG demonstrated high electrical output (200 V, 25 μA) and exceptional environmental tolerance.
- Stable signal output was maintained under extreme conditions (110°C, 85% RH, broad pH, repeated washing) with no degradation after 27,700 cycles.
- Successful validation through prototypes powering a sports watch and functioning as a self-powered fire alarm with motion detection.
Conclusions:
- A robust, multifunctional fabric-based TENG was successfully developed using P(DPPO-Si) coating.
- The TENG exhibits superior durability, environmental tolerance, and flame retardancy compared to conventional materials.
- This technology offers a versatile platform for advanced self-powered sensors in personal safety and intelligent fire protection systems.

