Harvesting energy from friction: the revolutionary decade of triboelectric nanogenerators
K. Uday Kumar, Gokana Mohana Rani, Swati Panda, Thitirat Charoonsuk, Krystian Mistewicz, Sugato Hajra, Kushal Ruthvik Kaja, Reddicherla Umapathi, Saichon Sriphan, Jakub Jała, D. Haranath, A. Smalcerz, Mohamed Ahmed Belal, Pannur Jaahnavi, Moein Safarkhani, Hanseung Kim, Yogendra Kumar Mishra, Hoe Joon Kim, Yun Suk Huh, Naratip Vittayakorn, Bartłomiej Nowacki, Sai Kishore Ravi, Stephen J. Eichhorn, Monica F. Craciun, Ana Borrás, Hamideh Khanbareh, Jiaqian Qin, R. Rakesh Kumar
Abstract
Abstract: Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have rapidly developed into a transformative energy harvesting technology, enabling self-powered, sustainable electronic systems. This review offers the first comprehensive, multidisciplinary perspective that connects the physics of triboelectric charge transfer with material innovation, device engineering, and real-world applications. We systematically categorize and measure the triboelectric series across a wide range of materials, including polymers, 2D materials, MOFs, perovskites, cellulose, and biodegradable frameworks, using experimentally validated methods. In addition to traditional approaches, this work highlights emerging strategies such as machine learning-guided material discovery, 3D printing, and advanced structural engineering to improve charge retention, durability, and power output. Unlike existing reviews, it uniquely combines theory and application insights, presents diverse uses from biomedical sensing and environmental monitoring to underwater communication and mechanoluminescence, and outlines a forward-looking plan for sustainable energy harvesting. This comprehensive synthesis serves as an essential resource for researchers and technologists designing next-generation TENGs and multifunctional self-powered devices.