Reconfigurable origami transparent cellulose triboelectric paper for multi-modal energy harvesting

Abstract

Facile integration of foldability, transparency, and waterproofness in multi-modality triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) applications is interesting. Here, we realized a reconfigurable origami transparent cellulose electronic paper (CEP) as TENG for energy harvesting from water, wind, and human motion. A unique silver nanowires-bundle mesh (AgBM) was embedded into a micron-thick ethyl cellulose paper by spraying and transfer process. Operating in single-electrode mode, the CEP-TENG can harvest energy from human motions by tapping, scavenge wind energy via mechanical interaction, as well as harvest energy from water, including acidic and alkaline water in virtue of protection by an extra hydrophobic cellulose oleoyl ester nanocoating. Origami capability enables the CEP-TENG to be reconfigurable in three-dimensional mode to maximize the energy harvesting efficiency. The CEP-TENG energy window was demonstrated under the flowing water to achieve a self-powered lighting display. CEP-TENG realizes the all-weather and multi-modality energy harvesting, promising for wearable and attachable power sources, self-powered applications such as outdoor displays, windows, decorative accessories, and life-saving appliances.