Triboelectric Nanogenerator-Driven Electrostatic Soot Repulsion

This paper presents a novel self-powered system for real-time soot mitigation in exhaust converters, utilizing triboelectric nanogenerators to harvest mechanical energy from exhaust-induced vibrations and airflow. The system generates high-voltage pulses that establish an electrostatic field across monolith channel walls, continuously repelling soot particles without the need for fluids or external power. Constructed from heat-resistant PTFE/graphene composites and corrosion-resistant electrodes, the design operates passively at temperatures up to 800 °C and integrates seamlessly with standard cordierite or silicon-carbide substrates. Its retrofit-friendly architecture and multifunctional potential—including powering low-energy sensors or actuators—position it as a forward-looking solution in emissions control and smart converter technologies.