A team of researchers from Yonsei University and Pohang University of Science and Technology, led by Professors Sang-Young Lee, Sang-Woo Kim, and Changshin Jo, has unveiled a groundbreaking strategy to overcome the long-standing challenge of efficient energy storage in triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) systems. Published in Nano-Micro Letters , this work introduces a system-level solution that leverages frequency modulation to significantly enhance the compatibility and charging efficiency between TENGs and supercapacitors (SCs), presenting a major step forward for self-powered electronics and energy-autonomous devices.
Why This Research Matters
Core Innovation: Frequency-Responsive Supercapacitors with h-MXene/C Electrodes
The research addresses a major hurdle in TENG-SC hybrid systems: the mismatch between high-frequency, short-pulse AC outputs from TENGs and the low-frequency, DC-biased nature of traditional supercapacitors . To solve this, the team developed a high-frequency SC using a three-dimensional hollow-structured MXene-carbon composite (h-MXene/C) .
Performance Highlights
Fundamental Insights: f SC ·Δt TENG as a Design Rule
To validate the universal applicability of this concept, the team fabricated a series of model SCs with varying frequency responses (High-SC, Mid-SC, Low-SC). They observed:
This mechanistic understanding not only highlights the role of electrode design in SCs, but also positions pulse-duration control of TENGs as a powerful and underutilized strategy for improving energy storage.
Additional Functionality: AC Line Filtering
Beyond energy storage, the h-MXene/C SC was shown to function effectively in AC line-filtering , smoothing 60 Hz AC signals with high fidelity, underscoring its potential for broader applications in power conditioning and smart electronics.
Future Outlook
This study marks a pivotal advancement in the development of high-performance, self-powered systems by offering a frequency-matched solution for TENG energy harvesting. The h-MXene/C-based supercapacitors serve as a new class of high-frequency energy storage materials, capable of efficient pulse energy absorption and release. With further optimization, this platform could be extended to:
The researchers propose that frequency-response engineering—centered around the f SC ·Δt TENG parameter—can guide the design of future TENG–SC hybrid systems and self-powered devices.
Stay tuned for more pioneering contributions from Professors Lee, Kim, and Jo’s teams as they lead the charge toward scalable, high-efficiency energy storage solutions for the era of self-powered electronics!
Nano-Micro Letters
Experimental study
Pulse-Charging Energy Storage for Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Frequency Modulation
10-Apr-2025