Direct Current Generation in Triboelectric Nanogenerators Through Ionic Dynamics and Electrode Polarization Effects

Efficient conversion of mechanical energy into DC remains a challenge with existing methods, including Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs). In ionic tribomaterials, ion displacement and polarization enable dynamic control over charge magnitude and direction, like tribovoltaic nanogenerators (TVNGs), but unlike dielectric TENGs, where conductivity and triboelectric charge are often in tradeoff. Although ionic tribomaterials are gaining interest, their potential for generating DC output has not been explored. We demonstrate that modifying conventional dielectric materials with ionic components, such as PVC and plasticizers, can convert AC to DC. This mechanism, driven by contact electrification and electrode polarization (EP), enables stable DC generation across multiple mechanical modes—an issue commonly limiting existing methods. In this study, we develop an ionic-based DC TENG that produces continuous output, showcasing superior characteristics of PVC-based ionic materials and bridging the limitations of both TVNGs and dielectric TENGs through ionic dynamics, advancing sustainable energy harvesting technologies.