Critical Role of Thermomechanical Properties of Sulfur-Rich Polymers in Triboelectric Nanogenerators
발표자
박민지 (한양대학교)
연구책임자
위정재 (한양대학교)
초록
내용
Elemental sulfur, a byproduct of petroleum refining, generates an annual surplus of 7 million tons. Its upcycling has attracted attention due to economic feasibility, thermal processability, and high electron affinity (–200 kJ mol⁻¹). Sulfur-rich polymers (SRP) with fluoropolymers have been used as negatively chargeable contact layer in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG). However, fluoropolymer-based SRP contains toxic per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), posing environmental concerns. In this study, we enhanced TENG performance exclusively by controlling sulfur content and film thickness. Increasing sulfur content alters the thermomechanical properties of SRP, affecting electron transfer and surface charge density. A thinner contact layer improves performance by increasing charge generation through electrostatic induction. Optimizing composition and film thickness yielded a 436 V open-circuit voltage, highlighting its potential for sustainable energy harvesting.