Triboelectric nanogenerators: from nano energy to extreme manufacturing

Abstract Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), leveraging their capability for ambient energy harvesting and self-powered sensing, have emerged as a revolutionary solution for the Internet of Things (IoTs) and distributed intelligent systems. As human exploration extends into extreme environments such as deep space, abyssal oceans, and polar regions, TENGs exhibit tremendous application potential in extreme conditions, including high humidity, large temperature differences, low temperature, and strong radiation. However, these extreme environments impose unprecedented requirements on both the structural integrity and functional performance of devices and materials. To bridge this gap, an expanding repertoire of advanced extreme manufacturing methods is being employed in TENG fabrication to transcend the performance boundaries of conventional processing. This article begins by introducing fundamental principles of TENGs, provides comprehensive review on state-of-the-art extreme manufacturing technologies and their applications in harsh environments, and offers forward-looking perspectives on future developments in this field.