Effects of Co-Solvent-Induced Self-Assembled Graphene-PVDF Composite Film on Piezoelectric Application

A persistent purpose for self-powered and wearable electronic devices is the fabrication of graphene-PVDF piezoelectric nanogenerators with various co-solvents that could provide enhanced levels of durability and stability while generating a higher output. This study resulted in a piezoelectric nanogenerator based on a composite film composed of graphene, and poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) as a flexible polymer matrix that delivers high performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. By adjusting the co-solvent in the solution, a graphene-PVDF piezoelectric nanogenerator can be created (acetone, THF, water, and EtOH). The solution becomes less viscous and is more diluted the more significant the concentration of co-solvents, such as acetone, THF, and EtOH. Additionally, when the density is low, the thickness will be thinner. The final film thickness for all is similar to 25 mu m. Furthermore, the- crystal phase becomes more apparent when graphene is added and combined with the four co-solvents. Based on the XRD results, the peak changes to the right, which can be inferred to be more dominant with the beta-phase. THF is the co-solvent with the highest piezoelectric output among other co-solvents. Most of the output voltages produced are 0.071 V and are more significant than the rest.

Automated summary

This study successfully fabricated graphene-PVDF piezoelectric nanogenerators using different co-solvents to enhance durability, stability, and output. Adjusting the concentration of co-solvents such as acetone, THF, water, and EtOH led to varying viscosities and thicknesses of the solution. The addition of graphene and the combination with the four co-solvents resulted in a more dominant beta-phase, with THF showing the highest piezoelectric output among the co-solvents. Most of the output voltages were 0.071V, higher than those produced by other co-solvents.