Static Electricity Could Power the Future of Electric Vehicles
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A new generation of energy harvesting technology, leveraging the power of triboelectricity, is showing promise in reducing the energy consumption of electric cars. European researchers are developing a triboelectric nanogenerator that could turn the simple act of driving into a source of lasting power,potentially extending the range of electric vehicles and lessening our reliance on conventional charging infrastructure.
A phenomenon understood since antiquity, static electricity – formally known as triboelectricity – occurs when two different materials come into contact and separate, often through friction. This process causes a transfer of electrons, creating an electrical charge. As far back as 600 BC, the Greek philosopher Thales observed the effects of rubbing amber, laying the groundwork for centuries of scientific inquiry into this intriguing force.
Harnessing Nanoscale Friction for Energy
Researchers at the University of Ferrara (Italy),collaborating with European partners,are now applying this ancient principle to a cutting-edge problem.Their work, published on december 15, 2025, in the journal Nano Energy, details the development of a triboelectric nanogenerator that utilizes pressure to force water into and out of microscopic pores.
“This work presents a study on the use of nanoporous silicon monoliths for triboelectric intrusion-extrusion nanogenerators (IE-TENG), demonstrating their superior performance over powdered porous materials for triboelectric energy harvesting,” reads a statement from the study.”using a conductive and porous material can substantially improve charge transfer efficiency, leading to higher instantaneous power density and optimized cycle energy conversion.”
9% Efficiency: A Promising Start
The team’s innovative approach centers on the unique properties of porous materials. For a given mass, porous structures possess a significantly larger surface area compared to flat surfaces, maximizing the potential for charge exchange. This has resulted in an energy conversion efficiency of 9% using a triboelectric solution based on porous silicon, encased in a water-repellent silica layer.
When materials are brought into contact – or rubbed – an exchange of ions or electrons generates an alternating current, capable of transforming mechanical energy into usable electricity. The amount of charge exchanged, and therefore the strength of the current, is directly linked to the available surface area.
Despite centuries of progress in understanding electricity, the basic microscopic mechanisms behind triboelectrification remain a subject of debate. Scientists are still working to fully unravel what happens at the surface level when two materials interact in this way.
From Tires to turbines: The Future of Triboelectricity
The potential applications of this technology extend beyond electric vehicles. Researchers envision a future where the friction between tires and the road surface could be harnessed as a continuous,renewable energy source. While prototypes of regenerative shock absorbers are still under development, the long-term implications are significant.
“Friction between tires and road could become a new inexhaustible source of energy,” the researchers suggest.
While challenges remain
Why: Researchers are developing triboelectric nanogenerators to harvest energy from friction, aiming to reduce energy consumption and extend the range of electric vehicles.
Who: Researchers at the university of Ferrara (Italy), in collaboration with European partners, are leading the development.
What: They have created a triboelectric nanogenerator utilizing nanoporous silicon monoliths and water pressure to generate electricity from friction, achieving 9% energy conversion efficiency.
How did it end?: The technology is still in development, with prototypes of regenerative shock absorbers being explored. While challenges remain, the potential for harvesting energy from sources like tire friction is meaningful, offering a path toward sustainable power generation.
