journal article·2025-02Open access

Hydrogel‐Based Droplet Electricity Generators: Intrinsically Stretchable and Transparent for Seamless Integration in Diverse Environments

Sunmin Jang, Sangeun Lee, Soban Ali Shah, Sumin Cho, Yoonsang Ra, Gibeom Lee, Younghoon Lee, Dongwhi Choi

Advanced Functional Materials· Volume 35· Issue 9

Abstract

Abstract Droplet‐based electricity generators (DEGs) have emerged as innovative devices capable of transducing the kinetic energy of falling water droplets into electrical power, thereby presenting a promising solution for ambient energy harvesting. For effective application, DEGs must exhibit transparency and flexibility to facilitate aesthetic integration and optical/mechanical adaptability for utilization on natural objects and wearable devices. In this study, a hydrogel‐based DEG (Hy‐DEG) designed is proposed to be seamlessly integrated into everyday environments without compromising design or functionality. With the intrinsic characteristics of hydrogel, the Hy‐DEG exhibits superior optical transmittance (≈99%) and stretchability (≈70% of its original length), generating the electrical output performance of ≈45 V of voltage, 15 µA of current, and 42 µW of maximum peak power, with single droplet impact. This capability of the Hy‐DEG can operate electronic devices for environmental monitoring while maintaining seamless integration with commonly encountered surfaces. In this context, this study elucidates the characteristics of hydrogel bestowing novel functionalities upon the DEG, expanding the potential for energy harvesting in residential and commercial contexts. The implications of this research extend beyond conventional energy generation, fostering the development of self‐powered, transparent, and flexible devices.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Modular Robots and Swarm Intelligence · Electrowetting and Microfluidic Technologies

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Mechanical Engineering (Integrated Engineering Program) Kyung Hee University 1732, Deogyeong‐daero, Giheung‐gu Yongin Gyeonggi‐do 17104 Republic of Korea

Department of Mechanical Engineering Gachon University 1342 Seongnam‐daero, Sujeong‐gu Seongnam Gyeonggi‐do 13120 Republic of Korea

Department of Semiconductor Engineering Gachon University 1342 Seongnam‐daero, Sujeong‐gu Seongnam Gyeonggi‐do 13120 Republic of Korea

Funding

National Research Foundation of Korea · Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning

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