Healthcare management applications based on triboelectric nanogenerators

Abstract

In the current era of busy and eventful daily routines, the need for self-driven, robust, and low maintenance healthcare systems emerges significantly more than in earlier times. The nanogenerator (NG) technology provides a new pathway by utilizing nanostructured and eco-friendly materials toward biomedical systems by harvesting biomechanical energy. Triboelectric NGs (TENGs) have been well-developed to cater all these matters, giving self-powered, sustainable, environment-friendly, and low footprint devices. TENG comes up with great potential, therefore, we have summarized various dimensions of its applications in healthcare management, including prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment. We have reviewed different aspects of TENG healthcare systems that provide wearable, minimally invasive, and simple solutions while harvesting human motion as the power source. Here, recent advancements of triboelectric devices are compiled while discussing their significance, structure, capabilities, performance, and future potential. Meanwhile, the impact of TENG on protecting and treating various internal and external human organs, such as the heart, neural tissues, skin, and hair, has been described in detail. Moreover, TENG-based solutions have also included minimizing the effects of contemporary and lingering challenges such as air pollution and viral infectious diseases on human health. In the very end, we have concluded with the opportunities and possible solutions for anticipated challenges. © 2021 Author(s).