High-Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based On MXene Functionalized Polyvinylidene Fluoride Composite Nanofibers

This work proposes electrospun MXene (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) functionalized Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite nanofiber as a promising negative triboelectric layer for boosting TENG performance. Blending Ti₃C₂Tₓ nanosheets into the PVDF matrix improves the dielectric property and surface charge density, substantially enhancing the triboelectric performance.

• First use of electrospun MXene-functionalized PVDF composite nanofiber as a negative triboelectric layer.
• Significant enhancement of dielectric constant (270%) and surface charge density (80%).
• 1.58 times higher power output compared to pristine PVDF nanofiber TENGs.
• Demonstration as a self-powered foot motion sensor for controlling step lights.

A TENG was fabricated using PVDF/MXene composite nanofiber and Nylon 6/6 nanofiber. The dielectric properties of the composite were modulated by incorporating conductive MXene nanosheets. The TENG's performance was evaluated by its power output, stability, and ability to power electronics and act as a sensor.

The TENG delivered a peak power of 4.6 mW (power density: 11.213 W/m²) at a 2 MΩ load, 1.58 times higher than a pristine PVDF TENG. It showed excellent stability (> 60K cycles), charged capacitors, and operated commercial LEDs. It was also successfully used as a self-powered foot motion sensor.