Optimization of MWCNT Concentration in Polysiloxane-Based Nanocomposites for Enhanced Performance of the TENGs

Abstract

This study investigates the optimization of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) concentration in polysiloxane-based nanocomposites to enhance the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Flexible nanocomposite films were fabricated using the doctor blading method, and their triboelectric output was systematically evaluated as a function of MWCNT loading. The results reveal that incorporating MWCNTs significantly improves the electrical performance of the TENG, with the open-circuit voltage (Voc) and short-circuit current (Isc) increasing to 51 V and 5.7 μA, respectively, at an optimal concentration of 0.05 wt %, compared to 32 V and 3.3 μA for pristine polysiloxane films. However, further increasing the CNT content to 0.1 wt % led to a notable decline in output, attributed to nanoparticle agglomeration, which hinders effective charge transfer and promotes charge leakage. These findings underscore the crucial role of nanofiller dispersion and concentration control in the development of high-performance TENGs. This work provides valuable insights into the development of flexible, nanocomposite-based energy harvesting systems with enhanced output efficiency for wearable and portable electronic applications.