Output optimized electret nanogenerators for self-powered long-distance optical communication systems.

High-speed optical communication systems are built for real-time, massive and remote information exchange. However, any power outage will paralyse the systems and cause a huge loss. Here we constructed a self-powered long-distance optical communication system (SLOCS) utilizing output enhanced parallel connected electret nanogenerators (NGs) as a backup power for the power outage. The output current of the electret NG was promoted from 1.45 μA to 8.14 μA through optimizing the thickness of the electret film. In the SLOCS, a coded message was successfully transmitted for 50 meters by pressing electret NGs. The as-fabricated SLOCS paves the way to a simple and cost-effective strategy for developing a reliable emergency communication system in case of power outage, simultaneously promoting the progress of self-powered electronics.