Fabrication and characterization of a low cost Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) based on PDMS and Aluminum layer with gold nanoparticles

Abstract In this paper, we demonstrate a very straightforward method for creating an inexpensive triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) using layers of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and aluminium (Al). The contact-separation triboelectrification between the metal and polymer layers is the basis for the operation of the suggested device. Gold nanoparticles with a spherical form were first created and then sprayed over the Al layer to improve surface roughness and expand the contact area. To confirm the results without any impurities, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) of the deposited layers were performed. To determine the open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current (Isc), and power parameters both with and without a load ranging from 1 KΩ to 150 KΩ, electrical characterisations were also carried out. With the application of force via linear actuator on the manufactured device for an applied load resistance of 68 KΩ, the different values obtained are Voc =169 mV, Isc =120 µA, and Pout = 6 µW. Additionally, the device's output performance in terms of voltage, current, and power has been measured for a range of load resistances. The applicability of the constructed TENG in self-powered devices is demonstrated.