An impedance tunable and highly efficient triboelectric nanogenerator for large-scale, ultra-sensitive pressure sensing applications

This paper demonstrates a highly efficient approach for a TENG-based pressure sensor capable of detecting a wide range of pressures with record-high sensitivity. The work focuses on maximizing energy conversion efficiency by optimally tuning the internal impedance of the TENG. The sensor is based on double-sided tribological layers of micro-patterned PDMS and PDMS-CNT nanocomposites.

• Development of a highly efficient, impedance-tunable TENG for pressure sensing.
• Achieved a record-high sensitivity of 0.51 V/kPa over a wide pressure range.
• Maximized energy conversion efficiency to 48.17% by tuning internal impedance.
• Demonstrated an in-sole application for monitoring foot pressure in different walking patterns.

A TENG pressure sensor was fabricated with double-sided tribological layers of micro-patterned PDMS and PDMS-CNT nanocomposites. The internal impedance was optimally tuned to 2.5 MΩ to maximize energy conversion efficiency. The sensor's performance was validated through an in-sole application to detect varying foot pressures.

The TENG achieved a sensitivity of 0.51 V/kPa for pressures ranging from 5 kPa to 450 kPa, with an energy conversion efficiency of 48.17%. The in-sole application successfully monitored different walking patterns, showing its applicability in sports science and rehabilitation.