Uncertainty and Irreproducibility of Triboelectricity Based on Interface Mechanochemistry

Triboelectrification mechanism is still not understood, despite centuries of investigations. Here, we propose a model showing that mechanochemistry is key to elucidate triboelectrification fundamental properties. Studying contact between gold and silicate glasses, we observe that the experimental triboelectric output is subject to large variations and polarity inversions. First principles analysis shows that electronic transfer is activated by mechanochemistry and the tribopolarity is determined by the termination exposed to contact, depending on the material composition, which can result in different charging at the macroscale. The electron transfer mechanism is driven by the interface barrier dynamics, regulated by mechanical forces. The model provides a unified framework to explain several experimental observations, including the systematic variations in the triboelectric output and the mixed positive-negative mosaic charging patterns, and paves the way to the theoretical prediction of the triboelectric properties.

Automated summary

This article proposes a model based on mechanochemistry to explain the fundamental properties of triboelectrification. By studying the contact between gold and silicate glasses, it is observed that the triboelectric output varies greatly and experiences polarity inversions. The model suggests that electronic transfer is activated by mechanochemistry and the terminations exposed to contact determine the tribopolarity. It provides a unified framework to explain experimental observations and can be used to predict the triboelectric properties.