Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite film that is capable of converting mechanical energy to electrical energy. The film comprises a substrate and piezoelectric nanoparticles that are configured to form a plurality of pores. The present film is flexible and highly porous, providing high permittivity and beneficial porosity-mediated mechanical properties. When used in a piezoelectric nanogenerator (PNG), the film provides enlarged bulk film strain and reduced film impedance, resulting in a high efficiency PNG with increased output voltage and current as compared to known PNGs. A method of synthesizing the film is also described. The provided method is simple and cost-effective.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG) that is capable of harvesting mechanical energy into electricity. The PENG comprises one dimensional (1D) and two dimensional (2D) nanostructures integrated together to form a composite nanostructure. A major advantage of the present invention is that the composite nanostructure provides enhanced electrical output and enhanced mechanical stability as compared to previously reported 1D or 2D nanostructures alone. Also described is a hybrid nanogenerator that combines the PENG with a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). A method of synthesizing the composite nanostructure PENG, in which the 1D and 2D nanostructures are grown together on the same substrate using a low temperature hydrothermal method is also described. The provided method is simple and cost-effective.