Multi-layered roating disk-based triboelectric nanogenerators for self-powered cathodic anticorrosion

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) cathodic protection technology based on new energy harvesting represents a promising strategy owing to the low cost, low environmental pollution and simple installation. However, converting alternating current to pulsed direct current through a rectifier reduces the cathodic protection efficiency. Here, a multi-phase coupling TENG (RD-TENG) energy harvesting device with rotating disc is proposed for metal cathode anticorrosion. Through the rotation of the disk, high density current is generated to form a DC power supply. The current output pulse interval is reduced after full wave rectification, and the effect of a constant and stable direct current (DC) power supply can be achieved. The highly coupled superposition RD-TENG (3P5E) demonstrates a short-circuit current density (I_sc) of 1.86 μA, an open circuit voltage (V_oc) of 120 V, and a transferred charge (Q_sc) of 50 nC. At low speeds, RD-TENG (3P5E) can effectively power up to six LED bulbs without any noticeable flickering. Furthermore, when 304 SS connected to RD-TENG (3P5E), the open circuit voltage and corrosion potential decreased by 102 mV and 122 mV respectively, indicating superior corrosion protection compared to systems without RD-TENG. In general, this advancement provides an important practical significance for TENGs in expanding the application of cathodic corrosion protection in the Marine industry.