Transforming Bio‐Waste Into Low‐Cost Green Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting and Self‐Powered Sensors
Jahidul Hasan, Mst Maria Sultana Tonni, Limon Hossain, Md. Kamaruzzaman, S M Sohel Rana
Abstract
Abstract Bio‐waste‐based, flexible, and nontoxic triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with good performance are highly recommended for low‐cost, eco‐friendly biomechanical energy harvesting. Herein, a high‐output triboelectric nanogenerator (LPP‐TENG) based on lychee peel powder (LPP) used as a highly negative triboelectric material for the first time is proposed. This biodegradable, flexible, cost‐effective, and environmentally friendly biowaste not only contributes to sustainability but also introduces a novel application of agricultural waste in energy harvesting technologies and self‐powered sensor applications. The microstructure of LPP significantly increases the internal surface area and enhances its charge‐trapping capability, resulting in improved triboelectric performance. The fabricated device generated a maximum voltage of 312 V, short circuit current ( I SC ) 95 µA, maximum power density 8.21 W m −2 using finger tapping. Beyond material innovation, the work showcases the real‐world applicability of the LPP‐TENG as a highly sensitive, self‐powered pressure sensor with a sensitivity of 4.3 V kPa −1 across a pressure range of 1–180 kPa. Many functionalities, including motion sensing, touch and gesture recognition, and weak muscle movement detection, are successfully demonstrated, positioning the device as a versatile and wearable biomotion sensor. Therefore, this study introduces a novel strategy for transforming agricultural waste into a high‐performance, green energy harvesting solution, contributing toward sustainable energy technologies and zero‐waste initiatives.