Abstract
Triboelectric generators (TEGs) convert mechanical motion into electrical energy through contact electrification, offering a simple, lightweight, and potentially low-cost approach to energy harvesting. Because TEGs can operate using common motions such as sliding, rubbing, vibration, and human movement, they are well suited for distributed power generation in situations where batteries are impractical. As a result, TEGs have growing potential for applications such as selfpowered sensors, wearable electronics, and small-scale power supplies for low-power devices. Although the triboelectric effect has been observed for centuries, its underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood, and optimizing TEG performance remains an active area of research. This thesis addresses a gap in current TEG knowledge by quantifying how key operating and material factors influence output power and power conversion efficiency. In particular, the effects of frictional force and material pairing are examined through repeated contact between different polymers under controlled, varying conditions. The results show that TEGs achieve maximum efficiency at extremely low frictional forces, with efficiency decreasing rapidly as applied force increases. After a higher-force threshold, efficiency increases again with additional force, though it does not recover to the levels observed in the low-force regime. In addition, increasing the relative separation of materials within the triboelectric series is found to correlate with higher output and improved efficiency. The practical relevance of these findings is further demonstrated through the fabrication and testing of a large-scale prototype. This prototype is used to investigate the scalability of power and to confirm device viability by powering small electrical components, including LEDs. Overall, these results clarify how applied force, material selection, and operating conditions affect TEG energy harvesting performance. This information can be used to reduce inefficiencies and guide future optimization of triboelectric generators for improved power output and conversion efficiency.