The emergence of the “Big Yellow Sulfur Pile” in Vancouver, Canada stands as a symbolic representation of the vast quantities of elemental sulfur produced through the hydrodesulfurization process in petroleum refining. In a groundbreaking development in 2013, Prof. Pyun’s research group at the University of Arizona introduced inverse vulcanization as a method to synthesize a novel sulfur-rich polymer (SRP) with over 50 wt% elemental sulfur content in its backbone. These SRPs, known for their exceptional transparency and high refractive index in the infrared (IR) spectrum, have traditionally been employed in the production of polymer-based IR optics, supplanting costly and fragile materials like Ge, ZnS, and ZnSe.
The conventional use of fluoropolymers in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) as an energy harvesting technology poses significant environmental concerns due to the potential release of hazardous per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into the ecosystem. These substances, with their stable chemical structure, can persist in the environment for extended periods and pose severe health risks, including cancer, immune system impairment, and reproductive issues. To combat this pressing environmental issue, Prof. Wie’s team from Hanyang University has developed a sulfur-rich polymer-based TENG that offers a sustainable and efficient solution.
By leveraging elemental sulfur in TENGs, researchers have unlocked a host of benefits in terms of cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and enhanced performance. Elemental sulfur, abundantly available from the gas-phase hydrodesulfurization process at an annual output of 7 million tons, offers a cost-effective solution with high purity. This upcycling of elemental sulfur not only addresses sustainability concerns but also capitalizes on its electron affinity, which surpasses that of carbon, making sulfur-rich polymers optimal for generating surface charges essential for high TENG output performance.
Building upon prior research on SRP-based TENGs, Prof. Wie’s team has continually refined their approach to eliminate environmental hazards while maximizing energy output. The integration of MXene, a 2D nanomaterial, with segregated structures in SRP/MXene composites represents a significant advancement in TENG technology. This structural engineering enables uniform distribution with minimal MXene usage, creating a large interfacial area between MXene and the SRP matrix to enhance charge accumulation and optimize TENG performance.
The culmination of these innovations in SRP/MXene composite-based TENGs has yielded remarkable results, with a record peak power density of 3.80 W m−2 achieved. This substantial enhancement in performance not only enables the direct powering of electronic devices such as blue LEDs and efficient capacitor charging but also underscores a significant stride towards practical applications in diverse sectors. Furthermore, the intrinsic self-healing property of SRP/MXene composites ensures exceptional recyclability without compromising performance, underscoring the commitment to true sustainability in energy harvesting technologies.
The marriage of sulfur-rich polymers and innovative nanomaterials in TENG technology represents a paradigm shift towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape. By addressing environmental concerns, enhancing performance, and fostering recyclability, these advancements underscore the potential of transformative technologies in shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.
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