REVIEW

Environmental multi-physics coupled tribovoltaic effect for energy harvesting

¹ Center on Nanoenergy Research, Institute of Science and Technology for Carbon Peak & Neutrality, Key Laboratory of Blue Energy and Systems Integration (Guangxi University), Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, School of Physical Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
² Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Energy and Sensor, Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101400, China
³ School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

^* Corresponding author (email: czhang@binn.cas.cn)

Received: 5 July 2024
Revised: 19 October 2024
Accepted: 5 December 2024

Abstract

The tribovoltaic effect represents a newly discovered semiconductor effect for mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion. However, the semiconductor interfaces are typically susceptible to environmental multi-physics fields, such as illumination, temperature, and humidity, which can affect the energy conversion process of the tribovoltaic effect. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current research status of the environmental multi-physics coupled tribovoltaic effect for energy harvesting. We summarize the electrical output characteristics of tribovoltaic nanogenerators (TVNGs) in various physical field environments and the impact mechanisms of these fields on electrical performance, demonstrating their ability to capture and convert a wide range of mechanical energies, including wind, rain, waves, and illumination. We discuss the fundamental principles underlying these devices, their potential applications, and the key challenges and opportunities for future development. This review deepens our understanding of the energy harvesting mechanism of the tribovoltaic effect in multi-physics coupling. Adopting a multi-physics energy harvesting strategy not only broadens the scope and efficiency of energy harvesting but also drives the development of novel energy conversion devices, proposing fresh ideas for future innovations in sustainable energy solutions.