A research team from Zhengzhou University has systematically sort out the mechanistic frameworks and theoretical underpinnings of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), concurrently introducing four cutting-edge application frontiers: fluid energy harvesting, self-adaptive sensors and systems, high-voltage power sources, and interface probes. Beyond dissecting persistent technological bottlenecks, this review establishes actionable development trajectories to steer next-generation advancements.
Since its birth in 2012, Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) have demonstrated astonishing development potential across energy, sensing, and advanced material science domains. The capability of TENG to convert high-entropy energy into electrical signals has led to technological breakthroughs in multiple dimensions. Energy harvesting, TENGs conquer the low velocity and low frequency fluid kinetic energy, and have significant advantages in distributed energy scenarios. Intelligent sensing, TENG-based sensors achieve high sensitivity, driving advancements in industrial Internet of Things (IoTs) and environmental monitoring. High voltage output (tens of kilovolts) and contact electrification are two characteristics of TENGs. Based on these two characteristics, TENG can develop new high-voltage power sources and interface probe applications. This paper introduces the working principle and theoretical foundation of TENGs, then presents four cutting-edge applications of TENG: fluid energy harvesting, self-adaptive sensors and systems, high-voltage power sources, and interface probes. Finally, the current challenges faced by TENG in these directions were discussed, and some solutions were offered. This review not only provides a comprehensive review of TENG's latest applications but also offers guidance for its future development.
The Solution: These researchers comprehensively sort out the theoretical development of TENG firstly, starting from its theoretical foundations, including the phenomena of CE, working modes, theoretical models, and Figure-of-merits (FOMs). Grounded in this rigorous framework, TENGs have rapidly advanced, delivering exceptional output under diverse conditions and ultra-sensitive triggering that is reshaping energy conversion and sensing paradigms. Their hallmark high-voltage output effortlessly establishes localized, intense electric fields, unlocking a spectrum of remarkable applications. Leveraging the CE mechanism, TENGs uniquely probe interfacial electron-transfer dynamics, while their scalability positions them to harvest vast "blue energy" from fluid motion and supply sustainable power to humanity. Self-powered and exquisitely sensitive, TENGs promise a new era of sensor technology. The intense fields they generate enable precise manipulation and analysis of microscopic matter, and their efficient adsorption and degradation capabilities open fresh avenues for environmental remediation. Furthermore, TENG-based probes at material interfaces provide a robust tool for deciphering CE mechanisms, catalyzing a cascade of derivative innovations. Continued research and ingenuity will undoubtedly expand TENG's portfolio of transformative applications.
The Future: Four cutting-edge applications will bring TENG to a broader stage. Future research will explore more practical applications of TENG.
The Impact: TENGs have demonstrated considerable potential across diverse applications, suggesting significant implications for future technologies. This review synthesizes compelling evidence that TENGs hold robust prospects for implementation across multiple fields.
Reference:Xilong Kang, Pengbo Li, Daniil Yurchenko, Shuge Dai, Junlei Wang. Fundamental theory and cutting-edge applications of TENGs[J]. Materials Futures, 2025, 4(4). DOI: 10.1088/2752-5724/adf132
