High-Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Recycled Materials for Mechanical Energy Harvesting
This project develops a high-performance triboelectric nanogenerator based on recycled-material-derived graphene oxide and PDMS for mechanical energy harvesting, targeting sustainable, reliable, and environmentally friendly self-powered electronic applications.
THE CHALLENGE
Mechanical energy from human motion and artificial vibration sources is widely available but often wasted. Conventional small electronic and wearable devices still require external power sources, while material sustainability and device stability remain key barriers for practical energy-harvesting systems.
THE SOLUTION
The project develops a membrane-based GO/PDMS triboelectric nanogenerator using graphene oxide derived from recycled battery graphite. The device converts mechanical motion such as walking, running, tapping, and jumping into electricity to power LEDs, charge capacitors, and support small electronic devices.
DIGITAL TWIN
FRAMEWORK
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
Design a high-performance triboelectric nanogenerator using long-term stable anionic materials
Synthesize graphene oxide from graphite recovered from spent batteries
Modify PDMS using recycled graphene oxide to improve charge density and triboelectric output
Fabricate and characterize a GO/PDMS-based TENG device
Demonstrate mechanical energy harvesting from motions such as walking, running, tapping, and jumping
Evaluate pilot deployment potential for powering LEDs, charging capacitors, and driving small electronic devices