Fundamental Material Parameters Governing the Performance of Polymer‐Based Triboelectric Touch Sensors

ABSTRACT The growing demand for self‐powered electronics, such as touch sensors and wearable devices, highlights the need for reliable and efficient triboelectric systems. However, performance inconsistencies frequently originate from uncontrolled material morphology and processing conditions. This study explores the processing–structure–performance relationships in polymer‐based triboelectric systems, focusing on poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). Through controlled experiments incorporating auxiliary materials, poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and characterization via Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we demonstrate that triboelectric performance is primarily driven by crystal size reduction rather than increased crystallinity. Additionally, optimized surface morphology, achieved through electrospinning, significantly enhances output by balancing fiber diameter and defect density. This work establishes a systematic framework for interpreting triboelectric behavior, emphasizes the need for standardization and morphological transparency, and provides guidelines for designing high‐performance devices via scalable fabrication methods.

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Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
Published
2025-09-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/app.58025
Primary Topic
Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00

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article

Fundamental Material Parameters Governing the Performance of Polymer‐Based Triboelectric Touch Sensors

Nicole R. Demarquette, Maurício M. Kubaski, Ricardo J. Zednik
Journal of Applied Polymer Science
Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials
article

Fundamental Material Parameters Governing the Performance of Polymer‐Based Triboelectric Touch Sensors

Nicole R. Demarquette, Maurício M. Kubaski, Ricardo J. Zednik
article en

Abstract

ABSTRACT The growing demand for self‐powered electronics, such as touch sensors and wearable devices, highlights the need for reliable and efficient triboelectric systems. However, performance inconsistencies frequently originate from uncontrolled material morphology and processing conditions. This study explores the processing–structure–performance relationships in polymer‐based triboelectric systems, focusing on poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). Through controlled experiments incorporating auxiliary materials, poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and characterization via Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we demonstrate that triboelectric performance is primarily driven by crystal size reduction rather than increased crystallinity. Additionally, optimized surface morphology, achieved through electrospinning, significantly enhances output by balancing fiber diameter and defect density. This work establishes a systematic framework for interpreting triboelectric behavior, emphasizes the need for standardization and morphological transparency, and provides guidelines for designing high‐performance devices via scalable fabrication methods.

Journal of Applied Polymer ScienceVol. 143(3)
École de Technologie Supérieure (CA)
Canada Research Chairs, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
Openalex Percentile: Top 75%
Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials
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