Multifunctional triboelectric nanogenerator based on SCASN:Eu phosphor for integrated energy harvesting and photoelectric conversion

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) offer an effective solution for harvesting mechanical energy for distributed electronic devices; however, their functional singularity limits application in multi-scenario contexts. This research integrated the (Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu2+ phosphor (SCASN:Eu), characterized by high dielectric and red-emitting properties, with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to fabricate a PDMS/SCASN:Eu composite film, which is then employed to construct a multifunctional SCASN:Eu-TENG. Systematic optimization demonstrated that at a doping weight ratio of 40 wt. %, the luminescence intensity of the composite film reached a relatively stable state and maintained stability within the temperature range from room temperature to 90 °C. Simultaneously, under this condition, the SCASN:Eu-TENG achieved optimal electrical output, with an open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current reaching 81.7 V and 1.95 μA, respectively—approximately 2.8 and 3 times higher than those of the undoped TENG. Furthermore, by integrating with transparent acrylic plates and blue LEDs, a self-powered integrated photoelectric system was successfully constructed, enabling simultaneous mechanical energy harvesting and excitation of the composite film to emit a bright red “JSNU” pattern. This research achieves dual-mode self-conversion output of electrical and optical signals by combining fluorescent materials with the TENG, providing a new strategy for applications such as smart interaction and safety indication.