Simultaneous Triboelectric and Mechanoluminescence Sensing Toward Self-Powered Applications

Abstract

Simultaneous phenomena of triboelectricity and mechanoluminescence (ML) acquire vital insights into the mechanics of charge separation and recombination, as well as the relationship between mechanical stress and light emission. In the present work, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and ZnS:Cu particle-based composites are fabricated, which have good ML characteristics and can generate electricity via contact electrification. ML, in conjunction with a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), contributes by producing power from mechanical operations while also giving vital visual input in the form of light emission. This dual capability improves user awareness and efficiency in a variety of applications, making mechanical systems and wearable devices easier to monitor and optimize. To accomplish this, a single-electrode mode silver (Ag) nanowires embedded PDMS-ZnS: Cu-based TENG device is developed and achieved an electrical output of 60 V, 395 nA, and 15 nC by using a linear motor. Furthermore, the combined ML and TENG device is employed in various cases of safety monitoring. This integration provides self-powered devices that detect mechanical stress, delivering real-time warnings and illumination signals for increased safety and communication in demanding conditions such as SOS signaling, underwater driving, deep mining, and sports. © 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH.