Triboelectric nanogenerators are an alternative source of electricity. The device works by
converting the external mechanical energy into electricity by a conjunction of the
triboelectric effect and electrostatic induction. Different materials will develop a triboelectric
effect of different intensities when put into contact, making some material combinations
more suitable and others less so. In addition to the materials chosen, the efficiency TENG
will depend on other variables such as the force applied to the electrodes, the frequency of
excitation, and how the electrodes come into contact. In this work, we have focused on
studying the effect of force and frequency on the efficiency of a triboelectric generator, and
how they are related to different combinations of triboelectric pairs. Eight different pairs
were analysed in the so-called free-standing mode of operation of the triboelectric
nanogenerator. We have found that for most triboelectric couples, the generator output will
be higher at higher loads and higher excitation frequencies. Here, the frequency of excitation
has a more significant influence on the TENGs efficiency than the force applied. The major
drawback of such generators is the wear and tear on the electrodes due to the periodic lateral
sliding of the electrodes.
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