The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) developed in 2012 converts the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The mechanical energy is used for human body motion, wind blow, sound vibration and ocean fluctuation. The implanted TENG (iTENG) can convert the biological mechanical motion into the electrical energy in vivo and power the implantable active medical devices. The biological mechanical motion includes the heartbeat and respiratory muscle movement. This technology can extend the service life of implanted electronic devices and has a wide potential applications in medical industry. This paper reviews the latest research progress in iTENG's structure, working principle, output performance and its applications in powering the implantable active medical devices. Additionally, a further analysis is made on the challenges of iTENG's applications in clinical treatment.

TENG  /  implantable active medical devices  /  biological mechanical energy  /  self-powered