Abstract
Piezoelectric and triboelectric phenomena have been used for energy harvesting in self-powered systems. Zinc oxide's (ZnO) distinct piezoelectric characteristics, large surface area, and structural adaptability have made it a crucial part of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). This review about the effect of ZnO on the improvement of TENG performance encompasses various morphologies like nanorods, nanosheets, nanowires, nanoflakes, and microballoons, apart from the intrinsic properties of piezoelectricity, dielectric properties, interfacial engineering approaches, and design structures of devices that come together to impose tribo-piezoelectric coupling action. The synergistic interaction between ZnO's piezoelectric potential and triboelectric mechanisms significantly improves charge transfer, energy conversion efficiency, and output performance. The innovative surface mods and structural improvements in ZnO-based hybrid TENGs is highlighted and the effects of ZnO's morphology on TENGs' performance are also summarized Finally, the remaining challenges and future opportunities are discussed. The review further provides insights on ZnO-based energy harvesting techniques, highlighting potential design approaches such as morphology optimization, material tuning, interface engineering, device configuration strategies, and their possible applications in biomedical devices, wearable electronics, and self-powered sensors.
Date : 2026-02
