Work

Upcycling Disposable Mask Straps Into Asymmetric PEDOT:PSS‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators Enabled by Saline‐Induced Power Enhancement

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This work demonstrates a sustainable upcycling strategy that transforms discarded mask straps into flexible direct‐current triboelectric nanogenerators (DC‐TENGs) through an eco‐friendly NaCl‐assisted modification. The PEDOT:PSS/PVA/Pullulan composite simultaneously serves as the electrode and triboelectric layer, enabling a simplified and metal‐reduced fabrication. The saline treatment introduces Na + –PSS − coordination, which sustainably enhances molecular mobility, interfacial polarization, and charge transfer without the need for toxic dopants or complex post‐processing. The resulting device delivers a peak voltage of ∼1 V, a current of ∼180 µA, and a maximum power density of 0.5 W m − 2 under mechanical deformation. By utilizing water‐based NaCl as a benign ionic modifier, this approach exemplifies a circular and green pathway to improve energy harvesting performance while mitigating mask waste pollution. The developed NaCl‐enabled DC‐TENG offers a practical route toward sustainable, self‐powered wearable and communication systems aligned with global carbon‐neutral and SDG objectives.

Source: Small

DOI: 10.1002/smll.76115

Author: Min‐Hsuan Lee

Institutions: National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Tsing Hua University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Science and Technology Council, National Science and Technology Council