Self-Sustaining Water–Electricity Co-Supply Via a Wirtz-Pump-Driven Triboelectric Nanogenerator

Simultaneously securing clean water and reliable electricity remains a formidable global challenge, particularly in infrastructure-deficient off-grid regions. However, existing co-supply strategies are hindered by decoupled operating mechanisms and limited energy density. Here, we present a Wirtz-pump-driven triboelectric nanogenerator (WP-TENG) that enables both water conveyance and electricity generation within a self-sustaining platform. Powered by ambient water flow, the Wirtz pump leverages the air-lock effect to lift fluid as segmented liquid columns, thereby inducing periodic liquid–solid triboelectrification along the pipe wall. Crucially, the electrical output is boosted due to the dynamic evolution of the interfacial electric double layers within the inner–outer electrode configuration. Through systematic parameter optimization and modular integration, the WP-TENG achieves a volumetric flow rate of 200 mL·min −1 and a hydraulic head of 0.82 m, while delivering peak outputs of 920 V and 940 µA, exceeding those of reported liquid–solid TENGs under comparable conditions. Moreover, the platform powers an electrochemical disinfection module, enabling sustained 5-log microbial inactivation within 10 min during prolonged operation. This work establishes a self-sustaining platform for decentralized water–electricity co-supply and offers a scalable route toward water–energy resilience in resource-constrained environments.