Abstract

Flexible triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) play a key role in Industry 5.0 by enabling sustainable energy harvesting from ambient mechanical motion, such as vibrations and human activities. Their flexibility and lightweight nature make them ideal for smart wearable devices, IoT sensors, and human-machine interaction systems. TENGs align with Industry 5.0's focus on green technologies and enhancing human-centric automation. Accordingly, polymer composite- based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) represent a cutting-edge advancement in energy harvesting technologies, leveraging the triboelectric effect to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. These devices comprise polymer composites that combine polymers with other materials such as nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, or graphene, enhancing their triboelectric properties and mechanical robustness. Polymer composite TENGs are advantageous due to their flexibility, lightweight nature, and ease of fabrication, making them suitable for various applications, including wearable electronics, environmental monitoring, and self-powered sensors. The composite materials can be engineered to improve durability and performance under various environmental conditions, addressing challenges related to wear and tear. Additionally, these TENGs are scalable and can be integrated into large surfaces, enabling significant energy capture from ambient mechanical sources such as human motion, vibrations, and wind. Recent advancements focus on enhancing energy conversion efficiency, developing environmentally friendly materials, and integrating multifunctional capabilities, positioning polymer composite-based TENGs as a promising solution for sustainable energy harvesting in the evolving landscape of smart technologies and green energy systems. In this talk, the focus will be mainly on developing graphene-infused-TENGs for application as a self-powered sensor and an energy harvester. The discussion will also be made on how TENGs can be developed from sustainable and recyclable polymers, wherein graphene brings in the TENG properties.

Keywords: Artificial photosynthesis; Heptazines; H2 production; CO2 photoreduction.