Control methods and applications of interface contact electrification of triboelectric nanogenerators: a review

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a new type of device that can convert mechanical energy in the environment into electrical energy. Since its wide range of energy sources, high energy conversion efficiency and wide application range, it has become a hot spot in the energy field. However, the shortcomings of the high internal resistance, the low output current and power density have seriously affected the further applications of TENGs. This review is aimed to introduce the recent advanced methods and applications of controlling the interface contact electrification of TENGs, and identify and discuss the key issues that deserve additional studies.