Advanced design of triboelectric nanogenerators for future eco-smart cities

Abstract Eco-smart cities follow the ecological principles, utilize smart information technologies (Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, cloud computing) to build an efficient, harmonious, resilient, and sustainable habitable environment in the form of informatization. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) offer the benefits of being self-powered, affordable, extremely customizable, and multi-scenario applications. The researches depict that TENGs are well positioned to support the digitization, intellectualization and sustainable urban services, since they have been repeatedly demonstrated as renewable power providers and self-powered sensors. In this assessment, the most recent applications of TENGs technology in eco-smart cities over the past two years in various categories are investigated, including renewable energy supply (water, wind, solar and raindrop energy, etc.), human–machine interaction, intelligent healthcare, intelligent transportation, intelligent agriculture, intelligent industry and intelligent environmental protection. There is additional sketch of the distinctions in TENG materials, architectures, working modes, and contact modes for serving diverse living usage scenarios of the eco-smart cities. This review will promote and popularize the utilization of TENG in smart ecological cities, as well as provide instruction of its construction for future smart cities and eco-cities.