Research Progress of Hydrogel-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Human Health Monitoring

Yan Bao, Xinjie Li, Ruyue Guo, Junbin Zhou, Yitian Su

Prog Chem ›› 2026, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (6) : 1059-1072.

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Abbreviation (ISO4): Prog Chem      Editor in chief: Jincai ZHAO

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Prog Chem ›› 2026, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (6) : 1059-1072. DOI: 10.7536/PC20250911
Review

Research Progress of Hydrogel-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Human Health Monitoring

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Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENGs)convert mechanical energy from daily human activities(such as body movements,breathing,and heartbeats)into electrical energy,enabling real-time,continuous,non-invasive and convenient monitoring of physiological signals and motion states. Herein,this review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in hydrogel-based TENGs for human health monitoring. Initially,the fundamental working principles of hydrogel-based TENGs are introduced to clarify the conversion of human mechanical energy into electricity. Secondly,the roles of hydrogels in TENGs are analyzed from both triboelectric and electrode layers. Subsequently,the strategies to enhance the performance of hydrogels in terms of surface characteristics,mechanical properties,electrical conductivity and environmental stability are discussed,with the aim of improving overall device performance and expanding applicability. Next,the applications of hydrogel-based TENGs in monitoring human physiological signals(such as electrocardiogram,respiration)and motion states(such as joint movement,gait analysis,cervical exercises)are also summarized,demonstrating their broad potential in health monitoring. Finally,the future challenges and development directions are outlined,providing valuable insights for further research. In summary,this review aims to promote the development of hydrogel-based TENGs toward higher performance and wider application in human health monitoring.

Contents

1 Introduction

2 Working principle of hydrogel-based TENGs

3 Performance optimization of hydrogel-based TENGs

3.1 Surface characteristics

3.2 Mechanical properties

3.3 Electrical conductivity

3.4 Environmental stability

3.5 Collaborative optimization strategy

4 The application of hydrogel-based TENGs in human health monitoring

4.1 Human physiological signal monitoring

4.2 Human motion state monitoring

5 Conclusion and outlook

Key words

hydrogel / triboelectric nanogenerators / human health monitoring / performance enhancement

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Yan Bao , Xinjie Li , Ruyue Guo , et al . Research Progress of Hydrogel-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Human Health Monitoring[J]. Progress in Chemistry. 2026, 38(6): 1059-1072 https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250911

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Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(22378253)
China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2024M761895)
Shaanxi Provincial Department of Education Science Research Program(24JK0357)
Shaanxi Provincial science and technology plan project(2025JC-YBQN-146)
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