Open Access

ARTICLE

Research on Wave Energy Harvesting Technology Using a Hybrid Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Electromagnetic Generator

Jingying Zou^1,#, Wenzhou Liu^1,#, Yaoxuan Han², Chenxi Wang³, Chao Dong⁴, Youbo Jia^5,*

1 Electrical Engineering and Automation Teaching and Research Office, Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun, 130607, China
2 Supervision Project Management Department, State Grid Jilin Electric Power Co., Ltd. Construction Branch, Changchun, 130607, China
3 Information Security Teaching and Research Office, Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun, 130607, China
4 Internet of Things Engineering Research Office, Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun, 130607, China
5 Automation Teaching and Research Office, Changchun University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Changchun, 130607, China

* Corresponding Author: Youbo Jia. Email:
# These authors contributed equally to this work

Energy Engineering 2025, 122(10), 4081-4097. https://doi.org/10.32604/ee.2025.067544

Received 06 May 2025; Accepted 20 June 2025; Issue published 30 September 2025

Abstract

The ocean, as one of Earth’s largest natural resources, covers over 70% of the planet’s surface and holds vast water energy potential. Building on this context, this study designs a hybrid generator (WWR-TENG) that integrates a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and an electromagnetic generator (EMG). TENG is a new technology that can capture mechanical energy from the environment and convert it into electrical energy, and is particularly suitable for common natural or man-made power sources such as human movement, wind power, and water flow. EMG is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy through the principle of electromagnetic induction and can usually provide stable power output. The composite design leverages the complementary advantages of both technologies to efficiently capture and convert marine wave energy. By combining the TENG’s high energy conversion efficiency, low cost, lightweight structure, and simple design with the EMG’s capabilities, the system provides a sustainable solution for marine energy development. Experimental results demonstrate that at a rotational speed of 3.0 r/s, the TENG component of the WWR-TENG achieves an open-circuit voltage of approximately 280 V and a short-circuit current of 20 A. At the same time, the EMG unit exhibits an open-circuit voltage of 14 V and a short-circuit current of 14 mA. Furthermore, when integrated with a power management circuit, the WWR-TENG charges a 680 F capacitor to 3 V within 10 s at a rotational speed of 3.0 r/s. A simulated wave environment platform was established, enabling the WWR-TENG to maintain the thermo-hygrometer in normal operation under simulated wave conditions. These findings validate the hybrid system’s effectiveness in harnessing and storing wave energy, highlighting its potential for practical marine energy applications.

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