Stackable Direct Current Triboelectric-Electromagnetic Hybrid Nanogenerator for Self-Powered Air Purification and Quality Monitoring

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and electromagnetic generators (EMGs) show their strengths in harvesting mechanical energy from ambient environment, while the output characteristics of the hybrid generators are not optimally utilized. Here, a stackable triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid nanogenerator is designed to construct a self-powered environmental governance system that fully harnesses the high-voltage output of TENG and high-current output of EMG, respectively. Based on the corona discharge, a cylindrical direct-current TENG is obtained by a flexible contact between flourinated ethylene propylene and Ag fiber cloth. Systematic studies of the parameters that affect TENG outputs are also performed. The results show that the two stacked direct-current TENG generates a -8.76 mu C s(-1) discharge rate and -21.61 kV voltage at 1400 rpm. For the EMG component, the rectified average power is 2.51 W, which can charge a capacitor of 1 F to 3 V in 38.9 s. Finally, driven by airflow, the designed hybrid nanogenerator is applied to release negative air ions and continuously power an air quality detector. The self-powered air purification and quality monitoring system via hybrid nanogenerator established in this work may provide an alternative avenue for sustainable societies.

Automated summary

In this study, a stackable triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid nanogenerator is designed to construct a self-powered environmental governance system. The system fully utilizes the high-voltage output of TENG and high-current output of EMG. The hybrid nanogenerator is applied to release negative air ions and continuously power an air quality detector.