Linking Electron Cloud Potential Wells to Achieve Ultrahigh Output Current in a Triboelectric Nanogenerator.

With the development of the Internet of Things and intelligent robots, there is an increasing demand for distributed flexible sensor networks and portable power devices. As a self-powered sensor and micro/nano powering supplier, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that can convert the irregular and ubiquitous mechanical energy into electrical energy demonstrates promising applications in human-machine interaction, soft robotics, wearable healthcare, etc. However, achieving ultrahigh current density and water resistance in TENGs remains challenging, mainly due to the non-utilization of the electrons in the interior of triboelectric layers. Herein, it is proposed that linking the electron cloud potential wells (ECPWs) of triboelectric materials can lead to a huge increase in the output current of TENGs. This hypothesis is verified by embedding a conductive network of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) into the triboelectric layers of ethyl cellulose (EC) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The TENG based on this model demonstrates a record-high current density of ≈3533 mA m-2 among the TENGs working in contact-separation mode. In addition, this TENG shows excellent endurance in high-humidity and even rainy environments. This work provides a novel and promising strategy for fabricating TENGs with ultrahigh output current and water resistance, largely expanding their practical applications in many fields.