Efficient Charging of Li‐Ion Batteries with Pulsed Output Current of Triboelectric Nanogenerators

The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a promising mechanical energy harvesting technology, but its pulsed output and the instability of input energy sources make associated energy‐storage devices necessary for real applications. In this work, feasible and efficient charging of Li‐ion batteries by a rotating TENG with pulsed output current is demonstrated. In‐depth discussions are made on how to maximize the power‐storage efficiency by achieving an impedance match between the TENG and a battery with appropriate design of transformers. With a transformer coil ratio of 36.7, ≈72.4% of the power generated by the TENG at 250 rpm can be stored in an LiFePO 4 –Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 battery. Moreover, a 1 h charging of an LiCoO 2 –C battery by the TENG at 600 rpm delivers a discharge capacity of 130 mAh, capable of powering many smart electronics. Considering the readily scale‐up capability of the TENG, promising applications in personal electronics can be anticipated in the near future.