Biomimetic Aerogel for Moisture-Induced Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Electronic Skin

Moisture-electric generator (MEG)-based blue energy is widely studied. There is still a significant challenge in improving the power of the MEGs system and expanding its application in self-powered electronic skin. Inspired by the structure of ferns, a biomimetic moisture-electric aerogel is designed to collect energy. Polyvinyl alcohol dendritic colloids act as "roots" and "stems" to provide support and channels to transport water molecules. Meanwhile, "leaf-like" graphene oxide sheets generate electricity through direct interaction with water. Besides, based on the above biomimetic structure, this work further enhances the output performance of MEGs by increasing the specific surface area (120.4 m(2) g(-1)) and introducing an ultra-high ion density gradient (from -35 to +37 mV). Meanwhile, due to the excellent water absorption, the MEGs show good salt resistance and cyclic stability. By constructing unique biomimetic structures, ultra-high ion density gradient, and regulating environmental conditions, a high-performance MEG is obtained, including ultra-high open-circuit voltage (1.9 V) and short-circuit current (82.5 mu A), the industry-leading power density among MEGs with continuous output is reported in the literature (22.55 mu W cm(-2)). Besides, the MEGs can accurately respond to environmental and pressure changes, showing its application potential in self-powered electronic skin.