Multi-scale nanofiber filter-based TENG for sustainable enhanced PM0.3 filtration and self-powered respiratory monitoring

Advanced healthcare monitors for air pollution applications pose a significant challenge in achieving a balance between high-performance filtration and multifunctional smart integration. Electrospinning triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) provide a significant potential for use under such difficult circumstances. We have successfully constructed a high-performance TENG utilizing a novel multi-scale nanofiber architecture. Nylon 66 (PA66) and chitosan quaternary ammonium salt (HACC) composites were prepared by electrospinning, and PA66/H multiscale nanofiber membranes composed of nanofibers (≈73 nm) and submicron-fibers (≈123 nm) were formed. PA66/H multi-scale nanofiber membrane as the positive electrode and negative electrode-spun PVDF-HFP nanofiber membrane composed of respiration-driven PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG. The resulting PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG based air filter utilizes electrostatic adsorption and physical interception mechanisms, achieving PM 0.3 filtration efficiency over 99% with a pressure drop of only 48 Pa. Besides PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG exhibits excellent stability in high-humidity environments, with filtration efficiency reduced by less than 1%. At the same time, the TENG achieves periodic contact separation through breathing drive to achieve self-power, which can ensure the long-term stability of the filtration efficiency. In addition to the air filtration function, TENG can also monitor health in real time by capturing human breathing signals without external power supply. This integrated system combines high-efficiency air filtration, self-powered operation, and health monitoring, presenting an innovative solution for air purification, smart protective equipment, and portable health monitoring. These findings highlight the potential of this technology for diverse applications, offering a promising direction for advancing multifunctional air filtration systems. This illustration shows a self-powered TENG filtration system based on multi-scale nanofibers for capturing PM particles and improving air quality through physical interception and electrostatic adsorption interactions. Powered by breathing, the TENG also serves as a tool for respiratory monitoring. • The TENG filter realizes over 99.0% PM0.3 filtration with low pressure drop (48 Pa). • The trans-scale submicron-/nano-fibrous membrane is rationally designed. • The filters are highly efficient, long lasting and moisture stable for PM0.3 filtration. • The TENG captures and transmits real-time respiratory signals via Bluetooth.