Improving the Performance of Polydimethylsiloxane-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators by Introducing CdS Particles into the Polydimethylsiloxane Layer

Energy harvesting and power generation technologies hold significant potential for meeting future energy demands and improving environmental sustainability. A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which harnesses energy from the surrounding environment, has garnered significant attention as a promising and sustainable power source applicable in various fields. In this study, we present a technique to improve the triboelectric performance of a PDMS-based TENG by incorporating nanostructured cadmium sulfide (N-CdS). This study investigates the utilization of CdS nanomaterials in TENG production, where mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. We conducted a comparative analysis of TENGs utilizing N-CdS/PDMS, commercial CdS/PDMS (C-CdS/PDMS), and pure PDMS substrates. The N-CdS/PDMS substrates demonstrated superior triboelectric performance compared to TENG devices based on pure PDMS and C-CdS/PDMS. The triboelectric open-circuit voltage (Voc) and short-circuit current (Isc) of the N-CdS/PDMS-based TENG device were approximately 236 V and 17.4 µA, respectively, when operated at a 2 Hz frequency. These values were approximately 3 times and 2.5 times higher, respectively, compared to the pure PDMS-based TENGs. They were further studied in detail to understand the effect of different parameters such as contact–separation frequency and contact force on the TENGs’ operation. The stability of the TENG devices was studied, and their potential to be integrated into self-powered smart textiles as power sources was demonstrated.