Triboelectric Nanogenerator: Vertical Contact-Separation Mode

Abstract

Vertical contact-separation modeIn this chapter, the basic working principle, theoretical analysis, and several representative prototype structures of the TENG in vertical contact-separation working mode are introduced, which is the most fundamental and frequently-used mode for TENG. This working mode has facile and scalable fabrications, simple design strategy, high instantaneous output power, and easy to scale up with multiple layer integrations. The TENGs at this working mode are usually driven by an external mechanical impact, and a critical factor affecting its output voltage is the amplitude of the separation distance between the two triboelectric layers (or contact surfaces), while the output current is dictated by the speed at which the two surfaces being contacted or separated. A lot of unique structures have been developed for various purposes, such as powering portable electronics and self-powered active sensors, which will be covered in the following chapters.