AWS-Based Triboelectri Nanogenerators for Water Wave Energy Harvesting: Physics Experiments and Simulations

Wave energy has been studied by many scholars throughout history as an alternative renewable energy source, with traditional wave energy conversion devices utilizing hydraulic systems and electromagnetic power generation technology being used to a great extent. The emerging triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) offers a novel technology for harvesting electrical energy from wave energy. In this study, a prototype TENG based on the Archimedes Wave Swing (AWS-TENG) is proposed. By investigating structural properties and wave energy theory, the physical model of AWS-TENG was developed. Furthermore, in order to better understand its electrical dynamic characteristics, a V-Q-X equation analysis of the TENG in vertical separation mode was carried out in finite element software. In addition, the experimental tests were carried out on the system. The experimental results show that AWS-TENG achieves a power density output of 7.2 mW/m2 at 4.5 Hz, which is sufficient for fast capacitor charging and application circuits. This novel TENG design offers a unique way to capture wave energy.