High-Output-Performance TENG Based on Random-Height Micropillar Structures

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) can collect and utilize mechanical friction energy. Enhancing their output performance remains a key challenge for practical applications. Crucially, the surface micro/nanostructure on the triboelectric layer significantly impacts its output performance. Here, we propose a method for fabricating random-height micropillar structures (RHMs) on the surface of the triboelectric layer by spatial-temporal shaping of the femtosecond laser composite imprinting to enhance the output performance of TENGs. Under applied pressure, the RHMs create multiple contact points that significantly expand the effective friction area. Simultaneously, differential deformation induces minor lateral displacements, generating additional triboelectric charge. Differential deformation created air gaps, induced the triboelectric effect, and generated an additional electric field. The synergistic effect of these mechanisms ultimately enhances the output performance of the TENG. Compared to unstructured PDMS, the RHMs-TENG exhibits a 20.6-fold increase in open-circuit voltage, with excellent cycling stability (2.7% attenuation after 25,000 cycles) and the ability to power 100 LEDs. This work presents an approach for fabricating micro/nano structures on triboelectric layers to improve TENG output performance.