Principles of Operation and Application Extensions of Triboelectric Nanogenerators: Structure and Material Optimization

As research on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) continues to advance, their applications are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated. This paper aims to provide future researchers with a concise yet comprehensive understanding of the four fundamental operational principles of TENGs, enabling them to fully appreciate the unique characteristics and application scenarios of each mode. In doing so, researchers can make informed and well-grounded choices in selecting the most suitable operational mode for exploration and innovation, tailored to their specific fields and requirements. Furthermore, this paper aligns closely with the current research frontiers and development trends of TENGs by systematically reviewing the literature and analyzing recent developments in the field from three key perspectives: the expansion of application domains, innovations in structural design, and optimizations in material properties. Through this multidimensional framework, it not only highlights the broad potential and practical prospects of TENGs but also uncovers the latest advancements and future directions in technological breakthroughs and performance enhancement.