Performance optimization of polysiloxane/GO nanocomposite-based triboelectric nanogenerators with varying GO concentrations

Flexible triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) employing polysiloxane/graphene oxide (PS/GO) nanocomposite films were designed to investigate how graphene oxide concentration influences dielectric characteristics and energy harvesting performance. Graphene oxide was prepared using a modified Hummers’ method and incorporated into the polysiloxane matrix at concentrations between 0.01 and 0.1 wt% through a solution-assisted spreading process to obtain uniform flexible films. The presence of GO enhanced interfacial polarization and increased the availability of charge-trapping sites, resulting in improved electrical output. Among all investigated compositions, the sample containing 0.05 wt% GO showed the most efficient triboelectric performance, generating a maximum voltage of 35.2 V and a current of 3.3 μA. Electrical measurements under different external resistances indicated a maximum output power of 54.6 μW at 9 MΩ, corresponding to a power density of 34.1 mW m−2. In addition, the practical applicability of the device was demonstrated through its ability to light multiple LEDs and charge a capacitor under periodic mechanical motion. Overall, the results confirm that optimizing the GO concentration within the polysiloxane matrix is an effective approach to improve the performance of flexible TENGs, offering promising potential for sustainable energy harvesting and self-powered electronic systems.