Multifunctional Triboelectric Nanogenerator‐Enabled Structural Elements for Next Generation Civil Infrastructure Monitoring Systems

Abstract

There is a critical shortage in research needed to explore a new class of multifunctional structural components that respond to their environment, empower themselves and self-monitor their condition. Here, the novel concept of triboelectric nanogenerator-enabled structural elements (TENG-SEs) is proposed to build the foundation for the next generation civil infrastructure systems with intrinsic sensing and energy harvesting functionalities. In order to validate the proposed concept, proof-of-concept multifunctional composite rebars with built-in TENG mechanisms are developed. The developed prototypes function as structural reinforcements, nanogenerators, and distributed sensing mediums under external mechanical vibrations. Experiential and theoretical studies are performed to verify the electrical and mechanical performance of the developed self-powering and self-sensing composite structural components. The capability of the embedded structural elements to detect damage patterns in concrete beams at multiscale is demonstrated. Finally, it is discussed how this new class of TENG-SEs can revolutionize the large-scale distributed monitoring practices in civil infrastructure and construction fields.

Recent Progress in the Energy Harvesting Technology—From Self-Powered Sensors to Self-Sustained IoT, and New Applications

“…In practice, a self-powered pedestrian warning system is demonstrated, in which 120 LEDs placed near the pedestrian are lighting as the vehicle moves over the triboelectric speed bump. Furthermore, Zhang et al fabricated concrete beams with embedded TENG rebars as proof prototypes of structural elements [272]. [271].…”

A novel smart composite: from self-powered sensors to multi-responsive shape memory actuators

“…3 To realize these potential applications, polymeric materials with intrinsic exibility have been investigated most in the development of so sensors or actuators. [4][5][6] But in addition to exibility, more functions should be considered during the design process to fulll various specic requirements for sensors and actuators in practical applications.…”

Thermal‐Triggered “On–Off” Switchable Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Two‐Way Shape Memory Polymer

“…However, with the ever-growing demands for applying the TENG devices into more advanced and complicated occasions, it is highly desirable to develop novel TENGs with intelligence and multifunction, which will be of great significance for next-generation selfpowered electronic systems. [13][14][15][16] The polymers, as the key components of TENGs, play an important part in determining the performance and the function of the device. [17][18][19] It is regarded that the polymer materials that have unique characteristics will bring additional functions and features to the TENG devices.…”