Multistage SrBaTiO3/PDMS Composite Film‐Based Hybrid Nanogenerator for Efficient Floor Energy Harvesting Applications

Abstract

AbstractTriboelectric nanogenerators are an emerging energy‐scavenging technology that can harvest kinetic energy from various mechanical moments into electricity. The energy generated while humans walk is the most commonly available biomechanical energy. Herein, a multistage consecutively‐connected hybrid nanogenerator (HNG) is fabricated and combined with a flooring system (MCHCFS) to efficiently harvest mechanical energy while humans walk. Initially, the electrical output performance of the HNG is optimized by fabricating a prototype device using various strontium‐doped barium titanate (Ba1‐xSrxTiO3, BST) microparticles loaded polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite films. The BST/PDMS composite film acts as a negative triboelectric layer that operates against aluminum. Single HNG operated in contact‐separation mode could generate an electrical output of ≈280 V, ≈8.5 µA, and ≈90 µC m−2. The stability and robustness of the fabricated HNG are confirmed and eight similar HNGs are assembled in a 3D‐printed MCHCFS. The MCHCFS is specifically designed to distribute applied force on the single HNG to four nearby HNGs. The MCHCFS can be implemented in real‐life floors with an enlarged surface area to harvest energy generated while humans walk into direct current electrical output. The MCHCFS is demonstrated as a touch sensor that can be utilized in sustainable path lighting to save enormous electricity waste.