Stick-Type Discharge Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Amplified Output Using a Conductive Spring

As technology develops over time, energy-harvesting methods that generate sustainable energy have been highlighted worldwide. In energy harvesting, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have several advantages, such as a simple design, high efficiency, low cost, and accessibility. Although they are applied in various fields, TENGs have limitations regarding the low current output on the microampere scale due to a high surface charge, leading to air breakdown and field emission. In addition, TENGs are implemented under vacuum pressure with high mechanical input frequency to overcome the limitation. Nevertheless, the developed TENGs still retain critical problems, such as the inability to make packaging systems and device damage. This paper reports on the stick-type discharge (SD) TENG that can provide an amplified current with outstanding durability by applying a conductive spring to solve the problem. Consolidating a dynamic electrode with an accumulated surface charge and low curvature spring and emitting a high electric field generate a milliampere current scale through electrons to flow directly with exceptional mechanical endurance. Thus, a multi-SD-TENG comprising four SD-TENGs and a portable holder powers a warning light in daily life through a shaking motion.