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TAP (Triboelectric-to-Action-Power)

We transform discarded plastic into clean energy by using it in a simple device that generates electricity from footsteps, turning waste and everyday movement into sustainable power.

  • A floor tile replacement that can generate 1000 volts per steps.

  • TAP the Floor tile replacement that uses triboelectrification to generate electricity.

  • Materials used in the fabrication of the TAP.

  • Exploded view of the TAP.

  • Front view of the TAP.

What it does

We designed a low-cost, spring-loaded energy harvester using recycled snack wrappers and copper films, creating a scalable, modular device that turns waste into a sustainable energy solution.


Your inspiration

We saw an urgent need for clean energy and waste reduction in the Philippines, where plastic pollution and fossil fuel dependence remain high. Discovering that discarded BOPP snack packaging could be repurposed to generate electricity inspired us to design a TENG that turns waste into power. By exploring BOPP’s potential in a simple, scalable setup, we aim to create sustainable energy while addressing plastic waste, aligning with SDGs 7, 12, and 13 through practical engineering.


How it works

Our device turns waste plastic into clean energy. We used BOPP plastic films from discarded snack wrapper, paired with copper sheets. When someone steps or presses on the device, the plastic and copper come into contact, causing electrons to move between them. As they separate, this movement creates an electric current. Springs inside help the layers press together and pull apart repeatedly, generating electricity from simple actions like walking. The design is scalable and low-cost, using recycled materials to produce clean energy while reducing waste. We measure the electricity produced and use it to power small devices, demonstrating how everyday movement can generate useable energy, turning trash into power for communities.


Design process

We began with the vision of turning plastic waste into clean energy using triboelectric nanogenerators. Our first prototype used 12.70 mm-thick wood (½ inch) for the frame, but it warped under repeated pressing, offering little resistance during contact. We addressed this by increasing the wood thickness to 25mm for better rigidity and durability. Initially, we tested with new BOPP film and copper sheets, confirming charge generation, then shifted to recycled snack wrappers, cleaning and cutting them while ensuring surface quality. We designed a spring-loaded wooden frame to enable repeated contact and separation, but early voltage outputs were low due to small separation gaps and misalignment. We improved by adjusting the spring height to 12mm and expanding the contact area to enhance energy output. We integrated copper tape connections for safe, modular assembly and ensured the BOPP was flat and secure to maximise efficiency. Through each iteration, we refined a scalable, low-cost, locally fabricable device that transforms plastic waste into clean energy through accessible engineering. Additionally, we plan to perform surface modifications like surface abrasion on the triboelectric layers to identify what can boost output performance.


How it is different

This study uses untreated dielectric materials sourced from readily available and recyclable waste, such as potato chip bags. This approach supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those focused on environmental protection, waste reduction, and affordable clean energy. By reusing non-biodegradable packaging, the design promotes circular economy practices. Unlike previous studies that rely on expensive, lab-grade polymers, this proposal focuses on identifying the optimal low-cost fabrication method for triboelectric nanogenerators using common materials. The modular design allows interchangeable components to test various configurations and material combinations. This enables both systematic performance evaluation and alignment with sustainable, real-world energy harvesting applications.


Future plans

To ensure long-term adaptability and scalability, the triboelectric nanogenerator prototype is designed with a modular structure that allows smooth replacement of key components, particularly the separation height, dielectric material, and base substrate. This enables systematic testing of various triboelectric materials, including recyclable polymers, bioplastics, and industrial waste. Additionally, the modularity allows exploration of different TENG modes to identify the most efficient configuration for energy harvesting.


Awards


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