Abstract
A new clean power source that has been gaining attention in the research field of sustainable energy is triboelectricity. The goal of this thesis was to evaluate the efficacy of the concept of creating tribo-electric power by inter-meshing two tribo-electrically diverse flock fiber surfaces. This phenomenon has been named Flocked Surface Triboelectric power Generation (FSTG). In this research thesis, a standardized flocked surface test sample configuration was first fabricated for systematic testing and then in order to facilitate this testing, a Flocked Surface Cycling Contactor (FSCC) was constructed to controllably intermesh two 10 cm x 10 cm flock fiber surfaces in a reproducible manner relative to Contacts Per Minute (CPM); at a constant intermeshing penetration depth. Before carrying out a parametric study of various FSTG tribo-couplings, an electrical circuit was assembled to convert the FSTG AC voltage signals produced into a DC voltage signal. This DC voltage was subsequently stored in a capacitor unit of a standard RC circuit. A FSTG parametric experimental plan was then set up that involved evaluating various FSTG material factors at various CPM rates (60 to 220 CPM) and flock fiber material type, flock denier, and flock density. Upon completing the parametric study, all of the data were analyzed by Three-Way ANOVA statistical methodology. From a power output standpoint, it was discovered that the FSTG effect was easily able to generate nanowatt power levels with all of the configurations tested. This included a samples that was able to produce an average of 5.61 nanowatts/cm2 of triboelectric material surface. Furthermore, it was found that the highest power levels were obtained at the lowest contact rate tested (60 CPM) and that at contact rates higher than 120 CPM, the FSTG power output leveled to a lower, relatively constant value. Within the Three-Way ANOVA, the three factors were CPM (A), nylon fiber density (B), and nylon fiber denier (C). It was found that both A and B factors were significant along with their interaction (A x B). It was also found through multiple tests that the A x B x C interaction was significant. This thesis represents the first step in establishing a new materials technology that could become a low cost and effective way of generating electric power for various applications. It uses flocked surfaces to convert mechanical to electrical energy in a simple and efficient way. This is also a direct use of a common commodity; large areas of fabric material. The future role of FSTG technology in contributing to the world's need for sustainable clean energy has yet to be determined. From the information reported in this thesis, FSTG technology shows promise. Research remains however, in carrying out studies destined to optimize the power output of this FSTG effect.