As a theoretical chemist and condensed matter physicist, Meloni, PhD, has spent years investigating the nanoscale fundamental properties of triboelectrification. This work is part of an EU-funded project called “ Electro-Fusion ,” which aims to create regenerative shock absorbers for electric vehicles. Essentially, it transforms mechanical energy into usable electricity, Meloni explained. However, it’s the defects in the grafting layer that actually drive triboelectrification, Meloni says. In other words, a future powered by simple rubbing is already on its way—and the 2,600-year journey to investigate the power of electricity continues.