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  • Letter
  • Open Access

Triboelectric charge transfer theory driven by thermoelectric effect

Ji-Ho Mun1,*, Eui-Cheol Shin1,*, Jaeuk Seo1, and Yong-Hyun Kim1,2,†

  • *These authors contributed equally to this work.
  • †Contact author: yong.hyun.kim@kaist.ac.kr
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Phys. Rev. Research 7, L032067 – Published 22 September, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/x3x7-s32f

Abstract

Despite extensive study and the practical significance of friction-driven static electricity, a quantitative triboelectric charge transfer theory has yet to be established. Here, we elucidate the detailed dynamics of triboelectric charge transfer driven by interfacial thermoelectric bias, maintaining a steady state at the interface. We demonstrate that transferred triboelectric charge exists in a deltalike distribution at a steady state and is dictated by half of the difference between thermoelectrically induced surface charges. Moreover, we quantitatively discuss electrostatic adhesion and static discharge between the transferred charges, which we may experience every day, including the role of surface charge inhomogeneity. Our findings may have significant implications for applications ranging from static electricity phenomena to advanced energy harvesting devices.

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Phys. Rev. Research 7, L032067– Published 22 September, 2025
  • Received 21 November 2024
  • Accepted 7 September 2025
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