KPU Develops Composite Material That Generates Electricity by Rubbing

Electricity Supply Capable of Powering 30 LEDs and a Digital Stopwatch Display Simultaneously

Korea University of Technology and Education announced on the 8th that Professor Bae Jinwoo's research team has developed a composite material capable of generating electricity by rubbing.

The research team increased the performance of the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) by about 19 times compared to previous models.

This device generates electricity when its materials are tapped or rubbed. When applied to clothing and similar items, it can convert friction from everyday movements into electricity, making it suitable for next-generation wearable devices.

The research team created the composite material by adding nickel-doped cobalt nanoparticles (Ni-doped CoFe₂O₄) to PVDF, a special type of plastic.

This material produced much more electricity than previous ones. Experimental results showed it could supply enough electricity to simultaneously power 30 LEDs and a digital stopwatch display.

In particular, the device maintained its performance even after being pressed more than 25,000 times, demonstrating its durability.

Professor Bae Jinwoo said, "This technology can accelerate the development of next-generation electronic devices that generate their own electricity and will be a practical solution applicable to various everyday devices."

This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea.