Dramatic increase in polymer triboelectrification by transition from a glassy to rubbery state

Here we report an order of magnitude increase of triboelectric charge density of glassy polymers such as polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) when heated above the glass transition temperature. Transition is accompanied by the larger force required for separation. Undeniably, surface roughness plays a great role in contact electrification, however as we see in this work its impact is overrated when compared to the influence of physical properties. Glassy polymers show an impressive surge in triboelectric surface charge when crossing their respective T g . In a rubbery state they become softer and more adhesive, therefore heterolysis of polymer bonds and material transfer becomes more probable.