Scientists from Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) demonstrated the first ever fabrication of TENG incorporating flexible single crystals of small organic molecules. The research involved has been published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
In another study, a textile-based TENG incorporating a nanostructured chitosan-glycerol film was developed. Chitosan, known for its biocompatibility and adaptability, was utilized to create a flexible, transparent, and humidity-resistant TENG. This device demonstrated stable output characteristics under various humidity conditions, distinguishing it from conventional TENGs. Its potential applications include self-powered healthcare sensors for monitoring humidity, sweat, and gait phases, highlighting its relevance in biomedical applications.
Furthermore, research into cellulosic gel-based TENGs has shown promise for energy harvesting in biomedical contexts. Cellulosic gels offer excellent degradability, biocompatibility, and flexibility, making them suitable for integration with human-machine interfaces. These gels can be engineered to enhance power generation and maintain stability under harsh environmental conditions, addressing challenges in developing effective TENGs for biological applications.
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Additionally, the development of liquid-liquid TENGs based on immiscible aqueous-aqueous interfaces has been explored. These devices achieve significant charge transfer and are applicable in humid environments. The biocompatibility of the two-phase materials used suggests potential for implantable biomedical devices, offering a foundation for aqueous electronics in medical applications.
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