A critical review on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/zinc oxide (ZnO) based piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators

In the recent era of energy crisis, piezoelectric and triboelectric effects are surfacing out of several research topics. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and its copolymers are well known piezoelectric polymers due to their high piezoelectricity and widely used in flexible devices. PVDF is greatly utilized in preparation of triboelectric layer also due to its higher electronegative nature amongst common polymers. On the other hand, zinc oxide (ZnO) has been studied widely to investigate its multifunctional properties including piezoelectricity, pyroelectricity and antibacterial activity. This versatile material can be prepared, using low cost and environmental friendly routes, in various morphologies. Various research is already performed to capture the synergistic effect of reinforcing ZnO within PVDF polymeric matrix. This work firstly describes the basic principles of piezoelectric and triboelectric effects. Thereafter, piezoelectric and triboelectric performances of PVDF and ZnO based materials are briefly depicted based on their structures. Finally, challenges and future scopes, associated with the mechanical energy harvesting from such materials, are highlighted

A critical review on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/zinc oxide (ZnO)-based piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators

In this current energy crisis era, piezoelectric and triboelectric effects are emerging as promising technologies for energy harvesting. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and its copolymers are well-known piezoelectric materials with high piezoelectric coefficients, which are widely used in flexible electronic devices. PVDF is also greatly utilized in the preparation of triboelectric layer due to its higher electronegative nature amongst common polymers. On the other hand, zinc oxide (ZnO) has been widely studied to investigate its multifunctional properties, including piezoelectricity, pyroelectricity and antibacterial activity. This versatile material can be prepared, using low cost and environmentally friendly routes, in various morphologies. Various research has already been performed to capture the synergistic effects of reinforcing ZnO within the PVDF polymeric matrix. This work first describes the basic principles of piezoelectric and triboelectric effects. Thereafter, the piezoelectric and triboelectric performances of PVDF and ZnO-based materials are briefly depicted based on their structures. Finally, the challenges and future scope associated with the mechanical energy harvesting from such materials are highlighted

Biodegradable based TENGs for self-sustaining implantable medical devices

Biodegradable Triboelectric Nanogenerators (B-TENGs) have emerged as a groundbreaking technology with the potential to revolutionize healthcare, particularly in the field of self-powered implanted medical devices. This review explains the fundamental role of B-TENGs in addressing the critical need for sustainable energy sources to power implantable devices. Beginning with an exploration of the significance of implantable devices in healthcare, the review emphasizes the necessity for biodegradable and sustainable energy solutions. Through an in-depth examination of the principles of TENGs and their integration with both traditional and biodegradable materials, the review highlights the design considerations essential for B-TENGs development. The review discusses the diverse array of biodegradable materials employed in various layers of B-TENGs, including active layers, electrodes, and associated signal conditioning circuits. Through critical evaluation of their potential performance in enabling self-sustaining medical devices, the review explains the promising outlook for healthcare advancement through these innovative technologies. Moreover, the review critically assesses the lifespan of B-TENG materials and addresses concerns regarding device durability. By identifying challenges in the practical implementation and commercialization of B-TENGs, offers insights into overcoming barriers to widespread adoption, thereby facilitating their integration into mainstream healthcare practices. Despite significant progress, the review acknowledges current challenges facing B-TENGs as implantable medical devices and provides perspectives on potential solutions. Finally, this review paper underscores the transformative potential of B-TENGs in advancing healthcare, predicting a future where self-powered and sustainable implanted medical devices could greatly impact patient care while reducing reliance on conventional power sources.</p