TRIBOELECTRIC NANOGENERATOR (TENG) DEVICE FOR HARVESTING ENERGY FROM RECYCLED CHEWING GUM WASTE

Abstract

A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for energy harvesting is provided, comprising a triboelectric positive material (102) made from recycled waste chewing gum and a triboelectric negative material (104) made from Ecoflex. The device includes a pair of electrodes (106A-B), made from aluminium foil sheets, attached to the positive and negative triboelectric materials. A compression component applies mechanical force to enable contact-separation between the materials, generating electricity by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the waste chewing gum is pre-processed to enhance its triboelectric properties. The device may also include a spring-assisted component to control material movement, improving energy generation efficiency. The TENG device is designed to power low-energy electronics, such as LCDs and LEDs, with a maximum power density of 35.55 µW/cm², a voltage of 167 V, and a current of 6.9 µA, making it a sustainable and efficient solution for small-scale energy harvesting applications. FIG. 1

Specification

Description:BACKGROUND
Technical Field
[0001] The embodiments herein generally relate to energy harvesting, waste recycling, self-powered sensors, energy harvesting material, more particularly to a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy.
Description of the Related Art
[0002] Plastic waste poses a severe threat to our planet, and discarded chewing gum is an increasingly significant problem. Chewing gum has long been a widespread human habit, with archaeological evidence confirming its use for nearly 9,000 years. Beyond its historical significance, chewing gum offers various benefits, including freshening breath, providing refreshment, aiding dental hygiene, helping to stay awake, reducing stress, whitening teeth, and even assisting in smoking cessation.
[0003] However, once chewed, gum becomes waste, as it cannot be swallowed. Each year, over 105 tons of discarded chewing gum contribute to plastic waste. This growing issue exacerbates environmental problems due to the unique characteristics of gum: it is slow to biodegrade, insoluble in water, indigestible, and the second most commonly littered item worldwide. The improper disposal of chewed gum creates significant environmental concerns, as its removal is complex and costly. Common methods, such as manual collection, burning, and chemical treatments, are labour-intensive, expensive, carbon-intensive, and contribute to air pollution.
[0004] Gumdrop, the first company to recycle chewing gum waste, has pioneered transforming discarded gum into products like shoes. However, recycled gum products have yet to gain widespread appeal due to their limited design and market value. Therefore, finding high-value applications for discarded chewing gum is essential for promoting sustainable development in society.
[0005] An existing system demonstrated that discarded chewing gum can be repurposed to create wearable electronics. They developed a new gum-based sensor by repeatedly stretching chewed gum in a 6 M NaCl solution, enhancing its ionic conductivity. This low-energy, environmentally friendly process can be easily replicated. The sensor is capable of real-time health monitoring, tracking facial expressions, finger movements, prolonged walking, and continuous ankle motion. This innovation shows great promise for wearable electronics and information encryption applications.
[0006] In another existing system, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are uniformly distributed across the surface of chewing gum using a technique involving repeated stretching and folding. This method produces an efficient sensor for detecting body movements. The CNT-gum sensor is highly sensitive to changes in humidity and responds rapidly to shifts in resistance, making it suitable for monitoring human breathing.
[0007] Another article explores the use of waste chewing gum in creating a self-healing and mechanically strong gel. The material, enhanced with a conductive polymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), along with hydrogen bonding and borax ester bonds, gives the gum-based gel its self-healing ability. The conductive gel is suited for applications in wearable electronics.
[0008] Yet another existing system discloses a flexible, superhydrophobic surface by modifying waste chewing gum with SiO₂. The material is shapeable, stretchable, self-healing, and reusable. It can be applied to surfaces like metal, fabric, paper, and plastic, exhibiting excellent self-cleaning properties by repelling fine dust. It is highly durable, resisting sandpaper abrasion, tape peeling, and exposure to various pH solutions. This material holds potential for a wide range of self-cleaning applications.
[0009] Yet another existing system investigates the use of discarded chewing gum as a modifier for road pavement. Researchers examined its effects on asphalt binder properties and chemically characterized the material at various weight percentages of waste gum. Yet another existing system highlights the importance of proper chewing gum waste disposal and raising awareness of its environmental impact. It emphasizes the need to manage gum waste to protect ecosystems.
[0010] Yet another existing system focuses on developing sustainable rubber compounds using secondary raw materials. It highlights the use of 25% waste chewing gum by weight in ethylene propylene diene monomer-based compounds, supporting circular economy practices and eco-friendly rubber manufacturing. Yet another existing system discloses an in-mouth electric taste device using a piezoelectric element activated by chewing. This device generates an electric current that allows users to experience tastes such as bitterness and saltiness.
[0011] Yet another existing system incorporates liquid metal droplets into chewed gum, creating a material with strong adhesion properties. These composites show potential in self-healing flexible electronics, strain sensors, and electromagnetic interference shielding, offering a practical solution for repurposing waste chewing gum.
[0012] The above-described existing systems cover various applications and modifications of waste chewing gum. However, there have been no reports of using waste chewing gum for energy harvesting, specifically in Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENG). Waste-chewed gum offers advantages such as flexibility, viscosity, and biocompatibility, making it suitable for stretchable and flexible electronics. While flexible electronics excel in sensing, conductivity, and shielding, the potential for energy harvesting through triboelectric generators using waste chewing gum remains largely unexplored.
[0013] Hence, there remains a need for triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy.
SUMMARY
[0014] In view of the foregoing, an embodiment herein provides a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy. The TENG device includes a triboelectric positive material, a triboelectric negative material, a pair of electrodes and a compression component. The triboelectric positive material is made from recycled waste chewing gum. The triboelectric negative material is made from Ecoflex. The pair of electrodes include aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material and the triboelectric negative material. The compression component applies mechanical force to contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials to generate electricity. When the device operates in a contact-separation mode, the device generates electrical energy by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.
[0001] In some embodiments, the waste chewing gum is pre-processed to enhance its triboelectric properties. In some embodiments, the device includes a spring-assisted component to control the movement between the triboelectric positive material and triboelectric negative material. In some embodiments, the device is configured to power low-energy electronic devices such as LCDs and LEDs. In some embodiments, the generated power has a maximum power density of 35.55 µW/cm², a maximum voltage of 167 V, and a current of 6.9 µA.
[0002] The TENG device utilizes recycled waste chewing gum as the triboelectric positive material, contributing to waste reduction and promoting sustainability. This repurposing of a common environmental pollutant aligns with circular economy principles. Ecoflex, the triboelectric negative material, is an eco-friendly silicone-based material, further enhancing the device's environmentally conscious design. The TENG device operates in contact-separation mode, efficiently converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. This mechanism is ideal for harvesting energy from everyday mechanical motions such as human movement or environmental vibrations. The device achieves a maximum power density of 35.55 µW/cm², making it suitable for powering low-energy electronics. A compression component applies mechanical force to ensure effective contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials, enhancing energy generation during each cycle. The option to include a spring-assisted component allows for controlled and precise movement, improving the durability and performance of the TENG over time.
[0003] The TENG device can generate a maximum voltage of 167 V and a current of 6.9 µA, providing sufficient power for low-energy electronic devices such as LCDs and LEDs, making it practical for real-world applications. The use of aluminium foil sheets as electrodes is a cost-effective solution, ensuring that the device remains affordable without compromising performance. The design of the TENG device, including its thin, lightweight materials, makes it highly portable and adaptable for wearable electronics or other compact applications.
[0004] The device's components, particularly the recycled chewing gum and Ecoflex, offer opportunities for further material optimization to enhance triboelectric properties and efficiency. The design is scalable, allowing for larger versions to power higher-energy devices or smaller versions for more specialized applications.
[0005] In one aspect, a method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device. The method includes (i) fabricating a triboelectric positive material from recycled waste chewing gum; (ii) fabricating a triboelectric negative material from Ecoflex; (iii) assembling a device where the triboelectric positive material and the triboelectric negative material are attached to a pair of electrodes, wherein the pair of electrodes comprises aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material and the triboelectric negative material; (iv) applying mechanical force to enable contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials; and (v) generating electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.
[0006] In some embodiments, the method includes pre-treating the waste chewing gum to enhance its triboelectric charge generation. In some embodiments, the electrical energy generated is stored in a capacitor for subsequent use. In some embodiments, the device operates at varying frequencies to optimize energy output, with a peak-to-peak open circuit voltage of 167 volt (V) and a short-circuit current of 6.9 microamphere (µA). In some embodiments, the generated energy is utilized to power small electronic devices such as LCDs or LEDs.
[0007] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates working mechanism of a contact-separation mode of a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy according to an embodiment herein;
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of recycling of waste chewing gum according to an embodiment herein;
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a spring-assisted component of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein;
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein;
[0013] FIGS. 5A-5H illustrate electrical performance of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein;
[0014] FIGS. 6A-6G illustrate chemical performance of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein; and
[0015] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device according to an embodiment herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0016] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0017] As mentioned, there remains a need for a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy and a method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device. Various embodiments disclosed herein provide a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy and a method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device. Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 11B, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, preferred embodiments are shown.
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates working mechanism of a contact-separation mode of a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy according to an embodiment herein. The TENG device includes a triboelectric positive material 102, a triboelectric negative material 104, a pair of electrodes 106A-B and a compression component. The triboelectric positive material 102 is made from recycled waste chewing gum. The triboelectric negative material 104 is made from Ecoflex. The pair of electrodes 106A-B include aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104. The compression component applies mechanical force to contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials to generate electricity. When the device operates in a contact-separation mode, the device generates electrical energy by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.
[0016] Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) convert low-frequency mechanical motions or vibrations into electrical energy using the principles of contact electrification and electrostatic induction. When two dielectric materials (i.e., the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104) with different electron affinities come into contact or rub against each other, electrons are exchanged. The material losing electrons becomes positively charged, while the material gaining electrons becomes negatively charged. This process, known as contact electrification, depends on the surface properties, friction, and applied force. As the materials interact, electrostatic induction occurs, generating opposite charges on the electrodes 106A-B. The electrode 106A attached to the negatively charged material attracts positive charges, while the electrode 106B attached to the positively charged material attracts negative charges, creating a potential difference that generates current flow through an external circuit. The continuous contact and separation of the triboelectric materials result in a periodic output of voltage or current. This energy can be harvested and stored in a capacitor or used in sensing applications.
[0018] In some embodiments, the waste chewing gum is pre-processed to enhance its triboelectric properties. In some embodiments, the device includes a spring-assisted component to control the movement between the triboelectric positive material 102 and triboelectric negative material 104. In some embodiments, the device is configured to power low-energy electronic devices such as LCDs and LEDs. In some embodiments, the generated power has a maximum power density of 35.55 µW/cm², a maximum voltage of 167 V, and a current of 6.9 µA.
[0019] The working mechanism of the TENG device is illustrated in FIG. 1. The recycled waste chewing gum serves as the triboelectric positive material 102, and the Ecoflex as the triboelectric negative material 104. Aluminium foil sheets function as electrodes 106A-B, with copper as the corresponding electrode. In the initial stage as shown in FIG. 1a, no current flows through the load. In Stage 1 as shown in FIG. 1b, contact electrification occurs when the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104 come into contact, with waste chewing gum losing electrons and becoming positively charged, while Ecoflex gains electrons and becomes negatively charged. This formation of static surface charges is a key feature of triboelectric materials. In Stage 2, as shown in FIG. 1c, as the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104 begin to separate, opposite charges are induced on the electrodes 106A-B due to electrostatic induction. The resulting potential difference generates a positive signal peak as current flows through the load. When the materials reach full separation as shown in FIG. 1d, the potential difference between the electrodes 106A-B balances, and no current flows.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of recycling of waste chewing gum according to an embodiment herein. A large amounts of waste chewing gum is collected from campus dustbins and streets for recycling it. FIG. 2 illustrates the process of recycling waste chewing gum for use in fabricating a material, potentially for triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) applications. The discarded chewing gum, typically thrown away in bins or on the streets, is collected for recycling. The chewed gum, now a waste product, is gathered for further processing. The waste gum is washed using water (H₂O) and ethanol (C₂H₅OH) to clean it, removing any impurities or residues that may be attached. The cleaned gum is then coated onto aluminium foil and left to dry at room temperature for 24 hours. The dimensions of the coated film are 3 cm x 3 cm, it is prepared in this format for further use, likely as part of a TENG device. This process shows how waste chewing gum can be transformed into a functional material for energy harvesting or other applications, demonstrating an innovative recycling approach. The TENG device, operating in contact-separation mode, efficiently generates electricity and can be applied in various prototype applications, such as self-powered devices and sensors. The TENG device presents a novel approach to repurposing waste while contributing to sustainable energy solutions.
[0021] Recycling waste chewing gum for the fabrication of active triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) materials offers several key advantages. First, it promotes environmental sustainability by repurposing discarded chewing gum, reducing plastic waste and its negative impact on the environment. Second, testing the triboelectric properties of waste chewing gum-based materials reveals their potential for efficient energy harvesting. By analyzing the chemical, mechanical, and energy-harvesting properties, these materials demonstrate durability, flexibility, and enhanced performance, making them suitable for various applications. Finally, the implementation of waste chewing gum in generating electricity paves the way for real-time applications in self-powered devices and sensors. This enables the development of eco-friendly, energy-efficient systems that can operate independently, supporting advancements in wearable technology, environmental monitoring, and low-energy electronics. The approach also aligns with sustainable development goals by turning waste into valuable energy solutions.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a spring-assisted component of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein. The TENG device includes a triboelectric positive material 102, a triboelectric negative material 104, a pair of electrodes 106A-B and a compression component. The triboelectric positive material 102 is made from recycled waste chewing gum. The triboelectric negative material 104 is made from Ecoflex. The pair of electrodes 106A-B include aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104. The compression component applies mechanical force to contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials to generate electricity. When the device operates in a contact-separation mode, the device generates electrical energy by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.
[0022] The TENG device includes a spring-assisted component 302 to control the movement between the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104. The TENG device is affixed with a double-sided tape 304 on both sides of an acrylic sheet 306. A layer of waste chewing gum is applied on top of the aluminium electrode 106A-B, effectively securing both the chewing gum layer and the Ecoflex film with the electrodes 106A-B. The dimensions of the chewing gum and Ecoflex are consistent, measuring 3 cm by 3 cm, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein. The device setup details are illustrated in FIG. 4 (a-e). In this exemplary TENG device, the recycled chewing gum film serves as the triboelectric positive material 102, while the Ecoflex film functions as the negative material. Thin aluminium foil electrodes 106A-B are attached to the bottom of both the chewing gum and Ecoflex materials, with copper wires connected through each electrode 106A-B for signal generation. The horizontal distance between the interiors of the two acrylic sheets is 3 cm, while the outer distance measures 7 cm. The vertical distance between the acrylic sheets is 7 cm, as depicted in FIG. 4 (b). The upper section of the acrylic sheet, along with the attached copper electrode, is shown in FIG. 4 (c). The bottom of the acrylic sheet is securely fastened with a stainless-steel bolt and nut (6 mm), as demonstrated in FIG. 4 (d). Additionally, detailed information regarding the dimensions of the spring-assisted component is provided in FIG. 4 (e). The components of the TENG device, which are activated during spring-assisted component energy application, play a crucial role in the overall function of the device. The spring-assisted component has an outer diameter of 11 mm, a length of 38 mm, and a wire thickness of 0.4 mm.
[0024] FIGS. 5A-5H illustrate electrical performance of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein.
[0025] FIG. 5A illustrates open circuit voltage corresponding to various applied forces, FIG. 5B illustrates short- circuited current response, FIG. 5C illustrates charges of the TENG device, FIG. 5D illustrates capacitor charging, FIG. 5E illustrates load analysis, FIG. 5F illustrates power and power density, FIG. 5G illustrates TENG device stability test more than 2000 cycles, FIG. 5H illustrates consistency test of the TENG device for successive 10 days. The electrical performance of the TENG device is primarily evaluated through two key parameters: open circuit voltage (VOC) and short circuit current (ISC). A Keithley 6514 electrometer is employed to measure the TENG device's open circuit voltage, short circuit current, and transferred circuit charges across different frequencies. With continuous contact between the waste chewing gum and the Ecoflex friction layer, the peak-to-peak open circuit voltage and short-circuited current are recorded at 167 V and 6.9 μA, respectively, as shown in FIG. 5A and 5B. The open circuit voltage at various frequencies (1.3−2.4 Hz) is depicted in FIG. 5A, where the maximum voltage of 167 V is achieved at a frequency of 2.2 Hz. As the frequency increases, the peak-to-peak open circuit voltage also rises: 145 V at 1.3 Hz, 152 V at 1.8 Hz, and 167 V at 2.2 Hz. The open circuit current of the TENG device gradually increases with frequency, as illustrated in FIG. 5B: 3 μA at 1.2 Hz, 5 μA at 1.9 Hz, and 6.9 μA at 2.3 Hz.
[0026] Additionally, as the frequency ranges from 1.15 Hz to 2.4 Hz, all three charging parameters nearly double: 34 nC at 1.2 Hz, 48 nC at 2 Hz, and 52 nC at 2.4 Hz, as shown in FIG. 5C. The voltage across a capacitor charged by the TENG device is plotted over time for different capacitor values (4.7 μF, 10 μF, 22 μF, 47 μF, 100 μF). Notably, within 80 seconds, a 10 μF capacitor can charge to 1.17 V, as demonstrated in FIG. 5D.
[0027] To further assess the TENG device's performance, electrical output is measured by applying various load resistances. Open circuit voltages and short circuit current values are recorded using commercial resistors ranging from 1 kΩ to 150 MΩ. The results indicate that the open circuit voltage increases with rising resistance, while the short circuit current shows an inverse trend, as depicted in FIG. 5E. The TENG device achieved a maximum power output of 346 µW and a power density of 35.55 µW/cm² at a load resistance of approximately 100 MΩ. This suggests that a 100 MΩ resistance is optimal for the TENG device, facilitating real-time applications, as illustrated in FIG. 5F.
[0028] The TENG device maintains a stable voltage output of over 2,000 seconds, consistently producing a 167 V output voltage, as shown in FIG. 5G. Notably, the output open circuit voltage is observed to remain around 165 V even after two days. These tests confirm that the TENG device is both efficient and durable, providing stable performance under prolonged conditions. Thus, the device is capable of continuous operation with long-lasting durability and stable electrical output, as indicated in FIG. 5H."
[0029] FIGS. 6A-6G illustrate chemical performance of the TENG device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment herein. Waste chewing gum underwent a comprehensive analysis of its chemical and mechanical properties, utilizing various techniques such as XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, TGA-DTA, contact angle measurement, and tensile stress testing. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis is performed using a Bruker D8 Advance instrument with Ni-filtered Cu Kα radiation (λ=1.5406 Å) over a 2θ range of 0−80°. FTIR analysis is conducted with an IRAffinity-1 (Thermo Nicolet IS50 with built-in ATR) to examine the vibrational modes of the waste chewing gum. Raman spectra are obtained using an Anton Paar Cora 5001 DUAL. TGA-DTA performance is evaluated with an SDT Q600 V20.9 Build 20 instrument, measuring weight changes from room temperature to over 800°C at a rate of 20°C/min with a nitrogen purge of 100 mL/min. Tensile stress properties are measured using a Tinius Olsen H5KS model materials testing machine. Surface contact angle measurements are conducted using a KYOWA interface measurement and analysis system (FAMAS), while scanning electron microscope (SEM) images are captured using an EVO 18 Research - CARL ZEISS instrument, which also facilitated elemental analysis.
[0030] X-ray diffraction analysis is utilized to identify the crystallographic structure and d-spacing between lattice layers based on Bragg's law (λ = 2d sin θ). Significant peaks in the 2θ range of 0−80° confirmed the presence of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) in the waste chewing gum, with notable peaks observed at 23.04° (0 1 2), 29.20° (1 0 4), 31.37° (0 0 6), 36° (1 1 0), 39.45° (1 1 3), 43.12° (2 0 2), 47.58° (0 1 6), 48.47° (1 1 6), 57.43° (1 1 2), and 64.77° (3 0 0), as illustrated in FIG. 6A.
[0031] Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy effectively characterizes the molecular interactions within the various components of chewing gum. The FTIR spectrum of waste chewing gum displays multiple bands associated with its ingredients: 3386 cm⁻¹ corresponds to OH stretching (moisture), 2960 cm⁻¹ and 2920 cm⁻¹ relate to CH₃ asymmetric stretching (polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), rubber, wax), 2848 cm⁻¹ indicates CH₂ symmetric stretching (PVAc, rubber, wax), 1728 cm⁻¹ is attributed to C=O stretching (PVAc), 1644 cm⁻¹ to OH bending (moisture), 1459 cm⁻¹ to CH₂ and CH₃ bending (PVAc), 1365 cm⁻¹ to CH₃ bending (PVAc), 1228 cm⁻¹ to C-O-C asymmetric stretching and C-C(CH₃)₂-C stretching (PVAc), 1015 cm⁻¹ to C-O-C asymmetric stretching and Si-O-Si stretching (PVAc silica/silicate), and 605 cm⁻¹ to C-CO-O bending (PVAc), as depicted in FIG. 6B.
[0032] Raman spectroscopy of the waste chewing gum revealed significant peaks at 284 cm⁻¹, 713 cm⁻¹, and 1086 cm⁻¹, confirming the presence of calcium carbonate. Notably, the singlet peak at 1086 cm⁻¹ corresponds to calcite, while the plane-bending mode of carbonate is found at 712 cm⁻¹ (calcite), as shown in FIG. 6C. The TGA analysis, conducted in an auto-stepwise configuration, presents a complex degradation phenomenon due to the diverse ingredients in chewing gum. The first weight loss at 100˚C is attributed to water evaporation, while the second step at 150˚C to 500˚C relates to the decomposition of PVAc. The weight loss observed between 600 and 800˚C is associated with random chain scission reactions leading to lower molecular weight hydrocarbons, as demonstrated in FIG. 6D.
[0033] In mechanical studies, the tensile stress test provides insights into the stress and strain characteristics of the discarded waste chewing gum. The sample dimensions are 1 cm by 3 cm, with a maximum stress of 0.25 MPa and a strain of approximately 40%. The same WCG sample is analyzed twice to confirm the results and ensure repeatability, as shown in FIG. 6E.
[0034] Surface classification based on the contact angle measurement of a 0.6 μL water droplet on the waste chewing gum film coated on a 2 cm by 2 cm glass substrate indicates a hydrophilic property, with a measured contact angle of 61.5˚ (less than 90˚), as illustrated in FIG. 6F. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images reveal the rubbery and elastic morphology of the chewing gum waste, observed at magnifications of 20 μm and 200 μm.
[0035] Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis of the waste chewing gum identified the elemental composition and estimated their relative concentrations: 64.01 weight% of Carbon (C) (74.85 atomic%), 23.34 weight% of Oxygen (O) (20.49 atomic%), and 11.16 weight% of Calcium (Ca) (3.91 atomic%), as shown in FIG. 6G.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device according to an embodiment herein. At step 702, a triboelectric positive material 102 is fabricated from recycled waste chewing gum. At step 704, a triboelectric negative material 104 is fabricated from Ecoflex. At step 706, a device is assembled where the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104 are attached to a pair of electrodes 106A-B. The pair of electrodes 106A-B includes aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material 102 and the triboelectric negative material 104. At step 708, a mechanical force is applied to enable contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials. At step 710, electrical energy is generated during the contact-separation cycles.
[0037] In some embodiments, the method includes pre-treating the waste chewing gum to enhance its triboelectric charge generation. In some embodiments, the electrical energy generated is stored in a capacitor for subsequent use.
[0038] In some embodiments, the device operates at varying frequencies to optimize energy output, with a peak-to-peak open circuit voltage of 167 volt (V) and a short-circuit current of 6.9 microamphere (µA). In some embodiments, the generated energy is utilized to power small electronic devices such as LCDs or LEDs.
[0018] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of appended claims.

, Claims:I/We claim:
1. A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device for harvesting energy, comprising:
a triboelectric positive material (102) made from recycled waste chewing gum;
a triboelectric negative material (104) made from Ecoflex;
characterized in that, a pair of electrodes (106A-B) comprising aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material (102) and the triboelectric negative material (104); and
a compression component that applies mechanical force to contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials to generate electricity, wherein when the device operates in a contact-separation mode, the device generates electrical energy by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.

2. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the waste chewing gum is pre-processed to enhance its triboelectric properties.

3. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device comprises a spring-assisted component to control the movement between the triboelectric positive material (102) and triboelectric negative material (104).

4. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device is configured to power low-energy electronic devices such as LCDs and LEDs.

5. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the generated power has a maximum power density of 35.55 µW/cm², a maximum voltage of 167 V, and a current of 6.9 µA.

6. A method for harvesting energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) device, comprising the steps of:
fabricating a triboelectric positive material (102) from recycled waste chewing gum;
fabricating a triboelectric negative material (104) from Ecoflex;
assembling a device where the triboelectric positive material (102) and the triboelectric negative material (104) are attached to a pair of electrodes (106A-B), characterized in that, wherein the pair of electrodes (106A-B) comprises aluminium foil sheets attached to the triboelectric positive material (102) and the triboelectric negative material (104);
applying mechanical force to enable contact-separation between the positive and negative triboelectric materials; and
generating electrical energy during the contact-separation cycles.

7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the method comprises pre-treating the waste chewing gum to enhance its triboelectric charge generation.

8. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the electrical energy generated is stored in a capacitor for subsequent use.

9. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the device operates at varying frequencies to optimize energy output, with a peak-to-peak open circuit voltage of 167 volt (V) and a short-circuit current of 6.9 microamphere (µA).

10. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the generated energy is utilized to power small electronic devices such as LCDs or LEDs.

Dated this November 6, 2024

Arjun Karthik Bala
(IN/PA 1021)
Agent for Applicant

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