Transformative Nanofiber-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator—Utilizing Recycled Polystyrene and Dual Nanoparticle Doping for Enhanced Performance in Energy Harvesting

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a promising solution for sustainable energy harvesting, capable of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through contact electrification and electrostatic induction. This research study focuses on the development of a TENG device utilizing nanofibers synthesized from recycled polystyrene as the tribopositive material and polyvinyl alcohol as the tribonegative material, with the goal of enhancing performance through nanoparticle doping. The study explores polymer matrices and doping strategies to optimize the triboelectric properties and energy output of the device. Appropriate polymer matrix composites can address challenges like the hydrophilicity of polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, while simultaneously introducing electrochemical properties that enhance energy-harvesting capabilities. Nanofibers are fabricated using electrospinning techniques, followed by comprehensive morphological and chemical characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrical performance of the TENG devices will be evaluated to assess the effects of nanoparticle doping on energy conversion efficiency. This work is expected to demonstrate improved triboelectric performance and provide insights into material properties that enhance TENG efficiency. These findings could contribute to the development of lightweight, high-performance TENG devices for applications in renewable energy, environmental monitoring, and portable electronics.
Keywords: Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), Nanofiber, Nanoparticle doping, Energy Harvesting.