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Harvesting energy from friction: the revolutionary decade of triboelectric nanogenerators
Author(s)
Khanapurarm, Uday Kumar
Rani, Gokana Mohana
Panda, Swati
Charoonsuk, Thitirat
Mistewicz, Krystian
Hajra, Sugato
Kaja, Kushal Ruthvik
Umapathi, Reddicherla
Sriphan, Saichon
Jała, Jakub
Divi, Haranath
Smalcerz, Albert
Belal, Mohamed
Jaahnavi, Pannur
Safarkhani, Moein
Kim, Hanseung
Mishra, Yogendra Kumar
Kim, Hoe Joon
Huh, Yun Suk
Nowacki, Bartłomiej
Ravi, Sai Kishore
Eichhorn, Stephen James
Craciun, Monica F.
Borras, Ana
Khanbareh, Hamideh
Qin, Jiaqian
Rajaboina, Rakesh Kumar
Date Issued
April 1, 2026
Type
Review
Abstract
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have rapidly developed into a transformative energy harvesting technology, enabling self-powered, sustainable electronic systems. This review offers the first comprehensive, multidisciplinary perspective that connects the physics of triboelectric charge transfer with material innovation, device engineering, and real-world applications. We systematically categorize and measure the triboelectric series across a wide range of materials, including polymers, 2D materials, MOFs, perovskites, cellulose, and biodegradable frameworks, using experimentally validated methods. In addition to traditional approaches, this work highlights emerging strategies such as machine learning-guided material discovery, 3D printing, and advanced structural engineering to improve charge retention, durability, and power output. Unlike existing reviews, it uniquely combines theory and application insights, presents diverse uses from biomedical sensing and environmental monitoring to underwater communication and mechanoluminescence, and outlines a forward-looking plan for sustainable energy harvesting. This comprehensive synthesis serves as an essential resource for researchers and technologists designing next-generation TENGs and multifunctional self-powered devices.
Citation
Advanced Powder Materials, 5(2), 2026