Stackable Disk-Shaped Triboelectric Nanogenerator to Generate Energy from Omnidirectional Wind

Abstract

Wind energy is a highly effective renewable energy source that can be used to alleviate environmental problems worldwide. However, the variability of wind inhibited the development of wind power generators such as limited directional conditions, restrictions pertaining to the installation sites, occurrence of mechanical failures, and limited wind speed ranges. In here, to overcome these limitation, we developed a stackable disk-shaped wind-rolling triboelectric nanogenerator (DWR-TENG) to generate energy from omnidirectional wind. Its disk-shaped design ensures that the device does not involve any restrictions related to the wind direction or installation. Furthermore, lightweight charged spheres in the device can reduce the occurrence of mechanical failures and expand the wind speed range (operating in 6.5-17.5 m/s) for the generator operation. The performance of the DWR-TENG was evaluated considering various design parameters by conducting experiments and an FEM simulation. Specifically, the DWR-TENG can be easily stacked in several layers, thereby exhibiting an enhanced charging efficiency.