Enhanced Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerator Incorporated With Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) Derived Carbon Dots

ABSTRACT Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have garnered significant attention as a promising technology for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. However, enhancing the output performance of TENGs remains a critical challenge. In this study, a fluorescent multifunctional triboelectric layer was constructed by incorporating carbon dots (CDs) into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The CDs were derived from poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) through solvothermal synthesis and exhibited yellow photoluminescence under ultraviolet excitation. The properties of the CDs were retained upon doping into the PMMA film, resulting in a thermoplastic, flexible, and fluorescent thin film. This composite film was further utilized as a triboelectric layer to construct a TENGs. The fluorine elements embedded in the CDs enhanced the electron‐attracting capacity from the tribopositive layer, thereby improving the output performance of the TENGs. The novel fluorine‐doped CDs were proven to be an efficient doping material for multifunctional electric devices.