Electrospun PVDF/Si-HBP of 1 st generation composite nanofibers: enabling enhanced charge density and power output in TENG

Abstract Sustainable and self-powered wearable electronics powered by triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have the potential to replace conventional battery-powered devices. In this study, we report a novel approach to enhance the charge density and power output of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-based TENGs by incorporating lab-scale synthesized silane-core hyperbranched polyester of 1st generation (Si-HBP-G1; 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt% relative to PVDF content) using electrospinning to form hybrid composite mats. Unlike traditional inorganic fillers, Si-HBP-G1 with a tribonegative silane core and hydroxyl end group ensures uniform dispersion and strong interfacial interaction with PVDF. The electrospun PVDF/Si-HBP-G1 (PG1) composite mats served as the tribonegative layer and an aluminum electrode served as the tribopositive layer in the fabricated TENG device. The optimized PVDF/Si-HBP-G1-15 wt% (PG1-15)-based TENG exhibited voltage output of 76 V, current of 2.1 µA, charge density of 8.3 µC m − 2 and peak power density of 0.035 W m − 2 . PG1-15-based TENG also demonstrated its ability to power 40 LEDs and a stopwatch. The device also produced voltage outputs in response to mechanical stimuli, such as tapping and bending, demonstrating its applicability for integration into advanced sensing systems for real-world applications.