Performance and service behavior in 1-D nanostructured energy conversion devices

One dimensional (1-D) nanostructures are envisioned as fundamental building blocks of future electronic, electromechanical, optoelectronic nanodevices and sensors, which will be integrated into nanosystenns. We briefly introduce the advantages of 1-D nanostructure in the fabrication of energy conversion devices, followed by the recent developments in device designs, fabrication and some effective approaches for performance enhancement. This review will cover the major progress in three research fields. Firstly, we present the progresses on the fabrication and property modulation of wurtzite nanostructures. Then, we introduce the progresses on the piezotronic properties of wurtzite nano-materials and prototype piezotronic devices, including piezoelectric field effect transistors, piezoelectric diodes, strain sensors and nanogenerators. Finally, the investigations of property degrading and damage of nanomaterials, and functional degrading and failure of the nanodevices will be presented for future electronic applications. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.