Research Projects

The Triboelectric effect, which generates static charges when two dissimilar materials come in contact, has been studied since prehistoric times. In 2012, Z.L Wang demonstrated the impact of this effect in harnessing energy using a Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG). Despite numerous efforts, the technology still requires more investments in monetary, intellectual, and instrumental resources. The main drawback is obtaining high output current, which is essential for running devices. To improve the generated charges, various materials have been used, modified, and doped, but the main bottleneck lies in understanding the origin of charges. One major concern is the use of waste materials, such as plastics, PET bottles, and paper, for recycling. To explore their charge generation properties, researchers are exploring the use of nanofibre through electrospun techniques. They aim to investigate the effects of ambient pressure, different gases, and moisture conditions on triboelectricity in various environments. They plan to use electro-spun nanowires of these polymers in shoe soles to create a prototype device to investigate the application of TENG on human motion.