Triboelectrification-muscle dynamics framework for developing triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) as implantable bio-applications

Project Information

TEMD

Grant agreement ID: 101026292

DOI

10.3030/101026292

Project closed

EC signature date 24 March 2021

Start date 1 January 2022

End date 31 December 2023

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 162 806,40

EU contribution

€ 162 806,40

Coordinated by

GOTTFRIED WILHELM LEIBNIZ UNIVERSITAET HANNOVER
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - TEMD (Triboelectrification-muscle dynamics framework for developing triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) as implantable bio-applications)

Reporting period: 2022-01-01 to 2023-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

With the development of implantable bio-applications, battery replacement becomes a key issue to achieve permanent implantation in vivo. To solve the problem, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are promising to achieve self-powering function due to their ability to convert mechanical energy to electric energy. However, their performances are dependent on external motions, such as frequency, displacement, force, etc., which has hindered the identification of the best in-vivo placement for TENGs.
Therefore, it is important to establish a framework between triboelectrification (TE) and muscle dynamics (MD) using experimental and computational simulation methods, so that the best in-vivo location for TENGs can be easily identified without wasting a large number of animal experiments. Given the framework, the research on TENGs can be boosted, leading to wide benefits to the relevant patients and the advance on scientific technology in energy harvesting.
The main objective of this project is to develop a TE-MD framework that can (1) predict the output performance of TENGs at any position of specific muscle, and (2) to design and optimize TENGs in certain circumstances for the improvement of performance and durability.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

First, to study the mechanism of interactions between TE and MD, the electrical output performance of TENGs under various external motions were measured experimentally, including applying the TENGs on a 3D printed heart. The dynamic data of heart were obtained and employed on the 3D printed heart to mimic the real cardiac motion.
Second, the computer models of TENGs and dynamic heart were established individually and then simulated coupling. Based on the experimental data, more situations were tested in modelling.
Third, the validation of framework was conducted and used for optimization of TENGs design.
Fourth, in the meantime, as a part of mechanism study, the fringing effect on TENGs were investigated.

The main results include:
(1) The interactions between TENGs and external motions were comprehensively studied, and disseminated in the workshop.
(2) The computational coupling model of TENG and dynamic heart was established, and disseminated in the conference.
(3) The fringing effect on boosting TENG performance was investigated, and under the review process of publication.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The outcomes of project have been disseminated to expert audiences in conference and workshop, and attracted for collaborations towards in-depth study in the field and beyond, such as Dr. Arjang Ruhparwar from Hannover Medical School (MHH). For instant, we will employ the TEMD framework to their materials, and adopt the 3D-printed artificial muscles for further development.
Beyond the academic, the outcomes of the project will also benefit a wide range of areas.
On one hand, the industry can transfer the knowledge and convert the technology into commercialization. The knowledge of such framework can reach technology readiness level (TRL) 5 which corresponds “Component and/or Breadboard Validated in Simulated or Realspace Environment”, providing high potential for industry to perform product development.
On the other hand, regulators can use the outcomes to facilitate the standardization activities in this interdisciplinary field.

TEMD