Analysis of High-Field Energy Harvesting using Ferroelectric Materials

The ferroelectric family of materials is employed in a wide variety of applications, ranging from simple sensors, transducers, and actuators to micro-electromechanical systems. The ability of these materials to combine electrical and mechanical responses has led to the establishment of many energy-harvesting and conversion systems. However, the low energy density coupled with high frequency requirements has prevented the successful commercialization of this technology. In this regards, a new approach is presented that is capable of enhanced electro-mechanical energy conversion by utilizing the high-field behavior of ferroelectric materials. A novel cycle has been recommended for continuous energy generation by using the proposed method. The cycle was simulated for the commercially available lead zirconate titanate (PZT) bulk ceramic and a maximum energy density of 526 kJm(-3) per cycle was obtained for a compressive stress of 0-400 MPa and an electric field of 0.2-2.0 kVmm(-1). The energy density obtained by using the presented technique is several hundred times higher than the highest energy density previously reported.