Renyun Zhang, Wenzhuo Wu, Chris Bowen, Philippe Basset, Christian Falconi, Ana Borras, Stephanos Konstantinidis, Rainer Adelung, Joao Ventura

Nano Energy, Volume 120, February 2024, 109113

DOI:10.1016/j.nanoen.2023.109113

The Sixth International Conference on Nanogenerators and Piezotronics (NGPT2022) took place under the auspices of Mid Sweden University from June 20 to 23, 2022. Originally planned as an in-person gathering, the conference switched to an online format in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this adaptation, NGPT2022 drew substantial engagement, featuring over 100 abstracts and welcoming more than 200 participants from 15 countries. This global representation underscored the conference’s status as a focal point for cutting-edge research in the realms of nanogenerators and piezotronics. The conference remains an inclusive platform, inviting contributions from diverse studies associated with these burgeoning fields. After the conference, discussions between NGPT2022 Chairman and Nano Energy Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Zhong Lin Wang, centered on the prospect of publishing a special issue, with a deliberate emphasis on contributions from European and North American research groups. The resultant collection comprises articles addressing pivotal themes in nanogenerators and piezotronics, including fundamental investigations into triboelectrification mechanisms at liquid-solid interfaces, as well as applications involving eco-friendly materials. Comprehensive reviews highlighting the latest advancements in these domains are also featured in this special issue. Our overarching aim is to catalyze the ongoing discourse and research momentum in nanogenerators and piezoelectronics, thereby amplifying the impact of our collective scientific strides. Through this initiative, we aspire to foster a deeper understanding of the science and tehcnology of nanogenerators and piezotronics and stimulate further innovation within the scientific community.