Magnetic PDMS@SiO₂/Fe₃O₄ composite friction layer material for enhanced triboelectric nanogenerator output performance

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) have exhibited remarkable potential in harnessing stochastic low-frequency mechanical energy from oceanic surfaces, attributed to their versatile architectures and capability for extensive deployment. Nonetheless, the relatively modest power output per unit area remains a critical limitation impeding the advancement of TENG technology. Consequently, the innovation of novel material systems and devices to augment the output performance and efficiency of TENG is paramount in achieving effective ocean energy exploitation. In our study, a vertical contact PC-TENG was utilized as an energy harvester, incorporating magnetic nano-oxide particles to bolster the output efficiency of TENG. This investigation represents the inaugural application of SiO 2 and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles within PDMS negative friction layers. This strategy augments the specific surface area, improving the contact between the friction materials and enhancing charge transfer efficiency. Moreover, the magnetic properties of Fe 3 O 4 facilitate charge separation on the material’s surface, culminating in an elevated voltage output. Comprehensive characterizations were conducted using SEM, FTIR, electrometer, and contact angle meter, while simulations were corroborated with COMSOL Multiphysics field simulation software. The output performance witnessed optimization through the incorporation of Fe 3 O 4 , culminating in a peak open-circuit voltage ( V OC ) of 85.1212 V, a maximum short-circuit current ( I SC ) of 8.4037 μA, and a maximum transferred charge ( Q SC ) of 0.5638 nC, reflecting enhancements of 28%, 32%, and 27%, respectively, compared to conventional PDMS materials. The peak output power, achieved with an impedance match of 55 MΩ, was recorded at 19.03 mW, marking a 70.8% improvement in output performance. The findings revealed that the contact angle of PDMS@SiO 2 /Fe 3 O 4 composites reached 100.092°, enhancing hydrophobicity by 8% relative to traditional PDMS materials, thereby rendering it more suitable for humid environments. COMSOL Multiphysics field simulation results further substantiated the viability of the PDMS@SiO 2 /Fe 3 O 4 composite friction layer material for applications in oceanic wave environments. Ultimately, a rectifier bridge was introduced to convert the alternating current generated by the PC-TENG into a direct current. This research offers a novel paradigm for the utilization of TENG in the realm of marine energy.