High-performance moisture-driven power generators based on in-situ confined polymerized ionic liquid membranes
Rongrong Wang, Junfeng Lu, Junfeng Lu, Wenjia Guo, Hao Dong, Nailiang Yang, Hua Li, Yanlei Wang
Abstract
: Harvesting energy from humid air to generate electricity represents a promising strategy for sustainable power generation. However, achieving high output and long-term stability in moisture-driven power generators (MPGs) remains a significant challenge. Here, we develop an efficient MPG by incorporating polymerized ionic liquid (PIL) and MXene through in-situ polymerization of cationic long chains within the MXene layers. This structural design enhances the hydrophilicity and ion dynamics, ensuring stable and sustained electrical output. A single MPG device delivers an open-circuit voltage of 0.65 V and a power density of 14.87 μW·cm -2 , operating continuously for over 36 h. Surface characterization and quantum chemistry calculations elucidate that the mobile anions within the MPG move directionally under moisture gradients, while polymerized cations remain stationary, driving power generation. The MPG exhibits exceptional long-term stability, retaining about 80% of its initial voltage output after 30 days. Moreover, these MPGs demonstrate scalability for practical applications, capable of efficiently charging capacitors and powering LEDs through simple series-parallel configurations. This work offers a promising strategy to simultaneously enhance the performance and operational stability of MPGs, offering a sustainable solution for the direct conversion of low-grade thermal energy from moisture into clean electricity.