PIEZOELECTRIC ENERGY HARVESTING
Piezoelectric materials exhibit a unique property known as the piezoelectric effect. When these materials undergo a compressive or tensile stress, an electric field is generated throughout the material, creating an increase in voltage followed by a current flow.
Signal Generation – electrical energy output of the material in response to strain is proportional, can be used as a sensor
Energy Harvesting – trickle charge a battery, capacitor, or other energy storage device from repeated strains and/or oscillation
Traditional ceramic piezoelectric materials are very brittle, and have low electrical energy outputs per unit strain. Materials research and technology improvements have changed the perspective entirely, and the application of piezoelectrics to a multitude of new applications is becoming an achievable possibility in light of these technological breakthroughs. Some examples include active smart sporting goods, next generation aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, wireless sensors, acoustical equipment, sports gear, industrial equipment, infrastructure, apparel and more.
