Green metal-organic frameworks for triboelectric nanogenerators: synthesis and dielectric design

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are increasingly integrated into triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) as dielectric modifiers to enhance energy-harvesting performance in self-powered systems. However, conventional MOF synthesis often relies on energy-intensive processes and environmentally unsustainable solvents, raising concerns regarding scalability and long-term sustainability. To overcome these limitations, green MOFs have emerged as promising alternatives that address environmental and processing challenges without compromising functional performance. Due to increasing interest in green MOF-based triboelectric nanogenerators, many researchers are studying about synthesis strategies, structural properties, and dielectric performance. Recent studies have also investigated how green MOF architectures influence charge trapping, interfacial polarization and frictional electrical behavior. In this regard, this review explores green MOF materials for TENGs, emphasizing their dielectric design principles that influence device performance and efficiency and further outlining sustainable synthesis routes for their preparation. It also outlines the fundamental chemistry and structural characteristics of MOFs and the working mechanisms of TENGs. It then discusses sustainable synthesis strategies for green MOFs, including the use of renewable and bio-derived ligands, and emphasizes recent advances in integrating these materials into triboelectric systems. Furthermore, this review highlights emerging applications of green MOF-enabled TENG platforms in self-powered sensing systems, including wearable electronics and intelligent sensing technologies. Collectively, it is anticipated that this review will advance the understanding and development of green MOF materials for their effective integration into triboelectric energy harvesting systems.