A Geometric Thrust Amplifier Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Full‐Spectrum Wave Energy Harvesting
Liang Tuo, Weiyu Zhou, Wei Tang, Jiawei Li, Yongsheng Wen, Honggui Wen, Lingyu Wan, Guanlin Liu
Abstract
Abstract Wave energy triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) often face challenges in achieving effective energy conversion due to limited thrust at the seawater solid–liquid interface, which hampers the full contact and separation of dense triboelectric layers. To address this, a novel thrust amplifier based triboelectric nanogenerator (TA‐TENG) is proposed that leverages a geometric gain principle to amplify applied water thrust, achieving a maximum force amplification of 3.8 times. This innovation enables efficient separation of the densely packed triboelectric layers across a wide range of wave frequencies. The silicon–manganese steel sheets employed in the TA‐TENG serve multifunctional roles as structural components, elastic elements, triboelectric layers, and conductors, resulting in a lightweight, cost‐effective design with enhanced buoyancy and performance. Laboratory experiments demonstrate peak outputs of 19.9 µC, 217 µA, and 488 V, empowering small‐scale devices such as calculators and hygrothermographs under simulated wave conditions. Field tests in the Beibu Gulf further showcased its robust performance, with an array of six TA‐TENG units successfully harvesting ocean wave energy to power marine electronics. This work represents the first demonstration of hydrodynamic thrust amplification in wave energy TENGs, providing a scalable framework for full‐spectrum wave energy harvesting.