Magnet gear-based triboelectric nanogenerator harvesting energy from boiling heat transfer environment

Boiling heat transfer has long been a promising thermal management technique across various industrial sectors. In the context of the energy crisis, recovering low-grade thermal energy from boiling environments is crucial for industrial advancement. Meanwhile, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are notable for low-grade energy harvesting due to their simple fabrication, adaptability to low mechanical frequencies, and lightweight nature. This study introduces a magnet gear-based TENG, designed to harness energy from boiling environments. The magnet gear facilitates remote force transmission from the rotor to the TENG module, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of high temperature and humidity. Rabbit fur is used to create a soft contact, enhancing coupling with the low-grade energy source, significantly reducing frictional resistance, and improving device durability. Tests demonstrate that the M-TENG does not impact the thermal management of boiling heat transfer, showing potential for integration with other thermal energy harvesting techniques. Its operational range spans the boiling curve from nucleation to critical heat flux, maintaining performance after 15,000 cycles. Furthermore, self-powered applications have been successfully demonstrated, such as powering small calculators, lighting at least 44 LEDs, and monitoring boiling heat flux, offering a viable strategy for industrial upgrading in boiling heat transfer scenarios. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd