The Rise of Nanogenerators

Abstract

The present article discusses the recent advancements in the field of self-powered systems that harness mechanical energy from vibrations in the environment to generate electrical power. It introduces the concept of nanogenerators, which can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy through piezoelectric or triboelectric effects. These nanogenerators are lightweight, flexible, and have a high energy density, making them suitable for integration into portable electronic devices and wearables. The article also highlights their potential application as biomedical sensors for monitoring human health by capturing bio-mechanical stimuli such as heartbeat and pulse. The choice of materials and device engineering are crucial in developing flexible and wearable nanogenerators, with various materials like semiconductors, transition metal dichalcogenides, and perovskites being explored for their piezoelectric and triboelectric properties. There is a need for further research to bring these technologies into everyday life, focusing on material selection, device engineering, and signal transmission technology to advance energy harvesting and health monitoring systems.