Performance and application of gel materials in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG): review and strategies for improvement.

In this paper, the application of gel materials in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and its performance improvement strategy are reviewed. With the increase of energy demand and environmental awareness, TENGs as a new type of self-powered system has attracted wide attention. Because of its excellent flexibility, adjustability and good electrical properties, gels have become an important choice for improving the performance of TENGs. This paper first introduces the working principle of TENGs. Then, the application of gel materials in TENGs are divided by adjusting the composition and structure of gel materials. Finally, methods to improve the gel material properties, such as optimizing the conductivity of the gel, increasing the surface roughness and improving the stability, are proposed to increase the output of the TENGs. In addition, this paper also discusses the application examples of different types of gel materials and the actual performance improvement effects. Finally, the current research challenges and future research directions are summarized in order to provide guidance for the further application of gel materials in TENGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]