The performance of and promotion strategies for degradable polymers in triboelectric nanogenerators

Degradable triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which use degradable polymer materials as the friction layer, have become the optimal choice in the field of electronic skin, wearable devices, and other new energy sources owing to their biocompatibility and degradability. However, the inferior output performance of degradable TENGs hinders their practical applications. Various strategies, such as modifications and surface optimization of the friction material, have been employed to deal with this challenge. In this review, we introduce the methods used for composition modifications and structural optimization for each type of degradable polymer used in TENGs and also discuss their other functions, such as degradability, antimicrobial properties, and biocompatibility. We summarize typical cases and the characteristics of each type of degradable polymer. Finally, we also discuss the challenges and future prospects for enhancing the properties of degradable TENGs, including the options for degradable polymers, their processability, and the bionic approach to materials design. We anticipate that this review will provide guidance for and assistance in constructing high-performance TENGs based on degradable polymers.