Exploring the piezoelectric performance of PZT particulate-epoxy composites loaded in shear

The active and passive piezoelectric response of lead zirconium titanate (PZT)-epoxy particulate composites loaded in shear is studied using analytical models, a finite element model and by experiments. The response is compared to that of the same composites when loaded in simple tension. Analogously to bulk PZT, particulate PZT-polymer composites loaded in shear show higher piezoelectric charge coefficient (d(15)) and energy density figure of merit (FOM15) values compared to simple tension (d(33)) and (FOM33). This outcome demonstrates the as-yet barely explored potential of piezoelectric particulate composites for optimal strain energy harvesting when activated in shear.