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Recent Advances in Current-Amplification Strategies of Triboelectric Nanogenerators by Regulating Air Breakdown Effect

  • Seh-Hoon Chung,   
  • Sangmin Lee *

Received: 16 Jan 2026 | Revised: 11 Feb 2026 | Accepted: 27 Feb 2026 | Published: 09 Mar 2026

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are promising energy-harvesting devices that convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. Despite their many advantages, many TENGs generate a low current output owing to their limited surface charge density and charge transfer capacity, which limits their practical application. In this review, we introduce several strategies that can amplify the current output of TENGs by improving the surface charge density of the triboelectric layer using liquid lubricants, controlling atmospheric conditions, and increasing the charge transfer capacity via the electron avalanche effect from electrostatic discharges. We also provide useful insights and design guidelines for TENG amplification.

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Chung, S.-H.; Lee, S. Recent Advances in Current-Amplification Strategies of Triboelectric Nanogenerators by Regulating Air Breakdown Effect. Nanoenergy Communications 2026, 1 (1), 5.
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