Self-powered broadband photodetection with mixed-phase black TiO₂-assisted output boosting of a biobased triboelectric nanogenerator

Simultaneously harvesting vibrating energy and solar energy from the ambient environment through triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) to construct a self-powered system is fascinating and exacting work. In this study, photoinduced biobased triboelectric generation during friction between a PDMS@black TiO₂ nanocomposite film and a chemically treated human hair film was demonstrated. The triboelectric output voltage and current signals were intensified by approximately 1.2–2.2 times, with output maxima of 85 V and 3.5 µA after illumination under full-spectrum conditions. Upon illumination, the output signals of the TENGs were appreciably altered depending on the intensity and wavelength of the light, delivering superior photoresponse characteristics, which included an outstanding responsivity of 606.8 V W⁻¹ and an ultrabroad detection range that extended over the ultraviolet (UV), visible and near-infrared (IR) regions, thereby providing a novel route for energy harvesting devices. These devices, along with self-powered photodetectors, ameliorate other environmental issues by eliminating human hair waste and developing a closed-loop system that promotes the responsible use of resources.