Power generation from piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate nanotubes

PZT nanotubes were fabricated by the template-assisted method and power generation from these nanotubes was demonstrated experimentally. The PZT nanotubes obtained had high aspect ratios, and were dense, straight and continuous. A pure perovskite phase with strong [110] preferred crystallographic orientation was obtained at 650 degrees C. The diameters of these nanotubes ranged from 190 to 210 nm, while the length was around 58 mu m, corresponding to the diameters and height of the nanopores in the anodic aluminium oxide template. The dielectric constant of the PZT nanotubes was determined to be about 470. These nanotubes could generate up to 469 mV voltage when a stainless-steel nugget was dropped on the electrode of the nanotubes. The power generation could be explained by the basic piezoelectric principles. This power generating mechanism had the potential to convert mechanical and vibration energy to electric power for nanodevices or integrated nanosytems.