A triboelectric nanogenerator utilizing recycled polystyrene-ZnO nanocomposite film with high humidity resistance

Researchers are actively engaged in the pursuit of best approaches for the decomposition or recycling of produced waste. In addition to the formidable challenge posed by waste pollution, the issue of efficient energy production stands as a significant global concern. In an endeavor to address both of these pressing issues concurrently, a distinctive approach involving the reuse and recycling of polystyrene waste and ZnO (WP/ZnO) nanocomposite materials within a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is investigated. The hydrophobic WP/ZnO nanocomposite film was prepared by a simple dry-casting method and further was treated with stearic acid for increasing the wettability characteristic of surface film. The hydrophobicity of the modified film was enhanced, leading to an increase in the voltage output of fabricated TENG up to a peak voltage of approximately 9 V. The impact of atmospheric moisture on the modified nanocomposite film in the TENG system was investigated at high humidity levels, which revealing the additional advantage of improved moisture resistance.