Researchers have made advancements in wave-energy harvesting with an improved liquid-solid triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that can convert mechanical energy into electricity as water sloshes back and forth inside a tube. To increase energy output, the researchers repositioned the electrode from the center of the tube to where the water crashes with the most force at one end. This optimization resulted in a 2.4 times increase in the device’s conversion of mechanical energy to electrical current, demonstrating its potential for larger scale blue-energy harvesting from ocean waves.
In their study, the researchers used 16-inch clear plastic tubes to create two TENGs, one with the electrode at the center of the tube and another with the electrode at one end. Water was added to fill the tubes a quarter of the way and the ends were sealed, with a wire connecting the electrodes to an external circuit. Placing both devices on a benchtop rocker caused water to move back and forth within the tubes, generating electrical currents by converting mechanical energy from water hitting or sliding against the electrodes into electricity. The optimized design showed a significant improvement in energy harvesting compared to the conventional design.
The researchers also conducted an experiment in which the optimized TENG blinked an array of 35 LEDs on and off as water entered the section of the tube covered by the electrode and then flowed away. This demonstration showcases the device’s potential for applications like wireless underwater signaling communications, in addition to its primary use for blue-energy harvesting from ocean waves. The researchers believe that their optimized design has laid the foundation for future advancements in the field of wave-energy harvesting and is a significant step towards practical large-scale applications.
The liquid-solid TENG developed by the researchers shows promise for harnessing the powerful energy of ocean waves, with the potential to contribute to renewable energy sources. By increasing the device’s energy output through electrode optimization, the researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of capturing wave energy in a more efficient manner. The study highlights the importance of ongoing research and development in the field of wave-energy harvesting to address the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
The authors of the study acknowledge funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key Research and Development Program of China, as well as computing resources from the High Performance Computing Center of Central South University. This support has enabled the researchers to make significant advancements in wave-energy harvesting technology and opens up new possibilities for utilizing blue energy in a variety of applications. The findings of this study contribute to the ongoing efforts to shift towards renewable energy sources and reduce the environmental impact of energy production.
