Breathable, transparent, waterproof, flexible and high-output triboelectric nanogenerators for sport monitoring and speech recognition

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with exceptional advantages are imperative for the development of next-generation wearable devices. In this study, we present a waterproof, flexible, transparent and breathable TENG fabricated by a cost-effective method. The innovative triboelectric layer can fold over 180 degrees, retaining 83% transmittance compared to air, and achieve a water contact angle of 109.3 degrees. Notably, we enhanced the nitrocellulose/silicon resin-based TENG's (NC/Si RS-TENG) output performance by 450%. Additionally, we explored the TENG performance with shape-adjustable electrodes, revealing a 5300% attenuation ratio between the electrode area and the electrical output performance and providing an approach to enhance the wearing comfort of the device. Furthermore, we introduce a compact triboelectric sensor (TES) for human-machine interface, sport monitoring and speech recognition. These findings broaden the prospects of shape-adjustable electrode TES in various domains, underscoring their significance in both fundamental research and practical applications. Approach of cost-effective is proposed to fabricate NC-based tribo-positive layer. The TENG property improved by 450% with better wearing experience. Quantification of the relationship between electrode properties and triboelectric performance.

Automated summary

In this study, a waterproof, flexible, transparent, and breathable TENG was fabricated using a cost-effective method. The performance of the TENG was enhanced by using shape-adjustable electrodes, and a compact triboelectric sensor (TES) was introduced for human-machine interface and sport monitoring. These findings broaden the applications of shape-adjustable electrode TES in various domains.