Advancements in solid–liquid triboelectric nanogenerators

In the current energy era, the consumption of limited conventional energy resources must be significantly reduced to protect the environment and promote the development of clean energy technologies. Human motion and environmental mechanical energy are abundantly distributed across the world. Over the past decade, the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has emerged as a highly efficient technology for converting low-frequency mechanical energy into electrical energy, owing to its unique advantages such as high energy density, versatile material selection, and scalability. In particular, solid–liquid TENGs have demonstrated significant potential in blue energy-harvesting, biosensing, and chemical-sensing applications. This article thoroughly discusses the effects of chemical compositions, surface properties, and micro-, and nanostructures on triboelectric output performance. Furthermore, key parameters that significantly influence the performance of solid–liquid TENGs are explored in detail to guide researchers toward advancements in this field. Additionally, the applications and real-life demonstrations of solid–liquid TENGs are discussed to highlight their practical potential. Finally, the conclusion addresses the challenges and constraints encountered in the real-life application of solid–liquid TENG technology, along with the perspectives of authors on future developments.