3D spring-based piezoelectric energy generator

Well-defined design and fabrication of piezoelectric energy generators are required for surrounding environment energy harvest, capable of providing sustainable, renewable energy for future life. Herein, we present a 3D piezoelectric spring in a sandwich structure mainly constituted of a flexible Al electrode, electrospun PVDF film, and a Pt electrode, where the inside commercial springs act as a 3D structural foundation. The resulting 3D piezoelectric spring exhibits its potential as a multifunctional sensor to detect strain, speed, frequency, and resistance. It is further bridged with LED/capacitor by rectifier for illumination and charging, enabling highly efficient environment energy harvest and storage. The parallel connection of three piezoelectric springs exhibits an output voltage of 7.2 V and output current of 300 nA for 21 M omega resistance, which are three times of single piezoelectric spring, demonstrating the possibility of scale-up. This work provides an effective strategy for 3D piezoelectric spring fabrication, and new insights for spring-based piezoelectric energy generators, devoting to energy harvesting technology.

Automated summary

This study introduces a 3D piezoelectric spring structure that functions as a multifunctional sensor and is connected with LED/capacitor for efficient environment energy harvest and storage, demonstrating the potential for scale-up of piezoelectric energy generators.