Breathable, transparent, waterproof, flexible and high-output triboelectric nanogenerators for sport monitoring and speech recognition

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with exceptional advantages are imperative for the development of next-generation wearable devices. In this study, we present a waterproof, flexible, transparent and breathable TENG fabricated by a cost-effective method. The innovative triboelectric layer can fold over 180°, retaining 83% transmittance compared to air, and achieve a water contact angle of 109.3°. Notably, we enhanced the nitrocellulose/silicon resin-based TENG's (NC/Si RS-TENG) output performance by 450%. Additionally, we explored the TENG performance with shape-adjustable electrodes, revealing a 5300% attenuation ratio between the electrode area and the electrical output performance and providing an approach to enhance the wearing comfort of the device. Furthermore, we introduce a compact triboelectric sensor (TES) for human–machine interface, sport monitoring and speech recognition. These findings broaden the prospects of shape-adjustable electrode TES in various domains, underscoring their significance in both fundamental research and practical applications.