Flexible Piezoelectric Composite with Conductive Nanostructures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional piezoelectric materials are hard and brittle, making them unsuitable for flexible electronic devices, which are increasingly demanded for their applications in pressure sensors, energy harvesters, and actuators.
Innovation Solution
A flexible piezoelectric composite is developed, comprising a matrix of polymers with different Young's moduli, piezoelectric particles, and conductive nanostructures, such as carbon nanotubes, to enhance flexibility and resistance to fatigue fracture, while allowing for effective polarization and voltage application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional piezoelectric materials (PZT, BaTiO3, PMN-PT) are used, then piezoelectric effect is achieved, but the material is hard and easily broken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite material system consisting of piezoelectric particles (PZT, PMN-PT, or PVDF) dispersed in a polymer matrix (epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone rubber). This composite structure combines the piezoelectric properties of the particles with the flexibility and fracture resistance of the polymer matrix, resolving the contradiction between achieving piezoelectric effect and maintaining flexibility with fracture resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the piezoelectric material by reducing piezoelectric particles to micrometer or nanometer scale and dispersing them within a polymer matrix. This parameter change in particle size and material composition transforms the material properties from hard and brittle to flexible and fracture-resistant while preserving piezoelectric functionality.
2Strength
If piezoelectric particles are dispersed in polymer matrix, then flexibility is improved, but polarization uniformity may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces conductive nanostructures (carbon nanotubes or graphene) as intermediary elements within the polymer matrix. These conductive networks facilitate uniform electric field distribution during polarization, ensuring consistent polarization across the flexible piezoelectric composite while maintaining the flexibility benefits of the polymer matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates local conductive pathways through the dispersion of carbon nanotubes or graphene within the polymer matrix. These localized conductive regions help distribute the electric field uniformly during polarization, ensuring consistent polarization quality across the entire flexible piezoelectric material without compromising its flexibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The flexible piezoelectric composite improves displaying quality, reduces volume, and provides enhanced driving force, enabling flexible and durable piezoelectric devices for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
When a mechanical displacement is applied to a piezoelectric material, a voltage is generated (piezoelectric effect)
Implementation Method 2
a conductive nanostructure disposed in the matrix
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a flexible piezoelectric composite. The flexible piezoelectric composite includes a matrix having first and second polymers, wherein Young's modulus of the first polymer and Young's modulus of the second polymer are different from each other; and a conductive nanostructure disposed in the matrix. In addition, a piezoelectric device including the flexible piezoelectric composite is provided.