DGIST Unveils Motion Powered System for Both Electricity and Light
Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) and mechanoluminescence (ML) are emerging as eco-friendly approaches that generate electrical power and light without an external energy source. Earlier studies frequently examined these two technologies on an individual basis or applied them in simple combinations. Additionally, TENG's performance consistency and the limited glowing period of ML materials have prevented practical integration in daily scenarios.
The research group introduced an approach that harnesses both electricity and illumination from movement and pressure. By blending ZnS:Cu (zinc sulfide-copper) particles into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix and incorporating a single-electrode design made from silver nanowires, they achieved high efficiency. The resulting device remained fully functional after more than 5,000 compression cycles and consistently delivered up to 60 V alongside a current of 395 nA.
Beyond merely showcasing a new concept, the team aimed for real-world readiness. The device can be used to send SOS signals by emitting light, an especially valuable feature in emergencies such as deep-sea operations or rescue missions. Its reliability under dark or underwater conditions sets it apart from similar systems, surpassing existing constraints.
Potential uses include wearable safety equipment, sports monitoring accessories, and emergency alert devices. Illustrations of these applications range from helmets that immediately respond to impact with a light signal, to wrist guards that track motion, to underwater rescue lights. As the device does not rely on a battery, it aligns with sustainable and eco-friendly principles.
"This research is of great significance because this technology can generate light and electrical energy simultaneously without batteries, using only motion, and it can be used immediately," said Prof. Kim Hoe Joon from DGIST's Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering. "In particular, this technology is expected to make our lives safer and more sustainable since it can send real-time signals in emergencies and reduce environmental impact through energy harvesting."
According to the team, co-first authorship is shared by post-doctoral researcher Sugato Hajra and Ph.D. candidate Swati Panda, both from DGIST's Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering. Prof. Kim Hoe Joon and Dr. Jeong Soon Moon served as corresponding authors. Their article was published in the international journal "Advanced Sustainable Systems," featuring as the December cover story.
Research Report:Simultaneous Triboelectric and Mechanoluminescence Sensing Toward Self-Powered Applications
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