Core-Shell ZnO@Microporous Organic Polymer Nanospheres as Enhanced Piezo-Triboelectric Energy Harvesting Materials

Core-shell nanospheres were prepared by the homogeneous coating of piezoelectric ZnO nanorod aggregates with triboelectric microporous organic polymer (MOP). The small energy harvesting performance of ZnO@MOP was significantly enhanced, compared with those of ZnO and MOP, due to the piezoelectrification-induced polarization of inner ZnO and the enhanced generation of tribopositive charges of MOP. Piezo-triboelectric nanogenerators (PTENGs) fabricated with ZnO@MOP showed peak-to-peak voltages of up to 534 V and a maximum power density of 1.19 mW cm(-2). In addition, the PTENGs showed excellent durability for 30 000 cycles, demonstrating as efficient power sources for charging electrolytic capacitors and for operating 200 green light emitting diode bulbs.

Automated summary

This study focused on the preparation of core-shell nanospheres by coating piezoelectric ZnO nanorod aggregates with triboelectric microporous organic polymer (MOP) for enhanced energy harvesting performance. The resulting piezo-triboelectric nanogenerators (PTENGs) showed high peak-to-peak voltages and power densities, as well as excellent durability, making them efficient power sources.