Uncertainty and Irreproducibility of Triboelectricity Based on Interface Mechanochemistry

Giulio Fatti, Hyunseung Kim, Changwan Sohn, Minah Park, Yeong Won Lim, Zhuohan Li, Kwi Il Park, Izabela Szlufarska, Hyunseok Ko, Chang Kyu Jeong, Sung Beom Cho

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Triboelectrification mechanism is still not understood, despite centuries of investigations. Here, we propose a model showing that mechanochemistry is key to elucidate triboelectrification fundamental properties. Studying contact between gold and silicate glasses, we observe that the experimental triboelectric output is subject to large variations and polarity inversions. First principles analysis shows that electronic transfer is activated by mechanochemistry and the tribopolarity is determined by the termination exposed to contact, depending on the material composition, which can result in different charging at the macroscale. The electron transfer mechanism is driven by the interface barrier dynamics, regulated by mechanical forces. The model provides a unified framework to explain several experimental observations, including the systematic variations in the triboelectric output and the mixed positive-negative "mosaic"charging patterns, and paves the way to the theoretical prediction of the triboelectric properties.

Original languageEnglish
Article number166201
JournalPhysical Review Letters
Volume131
Issue number16
DOIs
StatePublished - 20 Oct 2023

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Uncertainty and Irreproducibility of Triboelectricity Based on Interface Mechanochemistry'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this