Enhancement of ZnO-based flexible nano generators via a sol–gel technique for sensing and energy harvesting applications

Abstract

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a remarkable inorganic semiconductor with exceptional piezoelectric properties compared to other semiconductors. However, in comparison to lead-based hazardous piezoelectric materials, its features have undesired limitations. Here we report the 5~6 folds enhancement in the piezoelectric properties via chemical doping of copper matched to intrinsic ZnO. The flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator (F-PENG) device was fabricated using an unpretentious solution process of spin coating with other advantages like robust, low weight, improved adhesion, and low cost. The devices were used to demonstrate energy harvesting from a Standard weight as low as 4 gm and can work as a self-powered mass sensor in a broad range of 4 to 100 gm. The device exhibited a novel energy harvesting technique from a wind source due to its inherent flexibility. At three different velocities (10~30 m/s) and five different angles of attack (0~180 degrees), the device validated the ability to discern different velocities and directions of flow. The device will be useful for mapping the flow of air apart from harvesting the energy. The simulation was done to verify the underlining mechanism of aerodynamics involved in it.

Effect of polyethylene glycol and propyltrimethoxysilane on structural and optical properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel process

“…The peak at 276 cm -1 is related to the B 2 s order mode with low intensity. The broad feature between 1100 and 1200 cm -1 is assigned to the two phonon modes (2LO), characteristic of II-IV semiconductors [8,50].…”

“…Zinc oxide (ZnO) is known as an important semiconductor for its favorable properties as transparency [1], high electron mobility [2], wide band gap [3], tough room temperature [4] and luminescence [5]. In the last few years, there has been a growing interest of the researchers, focusing on the synthesis of nanocrystalline ZnO, hence, many methods, including sol-gel [6][7][8][9]. Thereby, particle size and crystal morphology play important roles in all applications, like nanodevices for opto-electronic [10], gas sensing [11], photocatalytic activity [12].…”

Mapping the structural, electrical, and optical properties of hydrothermally grown phosphorus-doped ZnO nanorods for optoelectronic device applications

“…ZnO is one of the most promising semiconducting materials, which has received significant attention owing to its unique and easily tunable physical and chemical properties [1–11]. It is known that the ZnO is an intrinsic n-type semiconductor.…”

Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Solutions: A Review

“…Maamet et al [ 9 ] presented the main characteristics of piezoelectric material types, as shown in Table 1 [ 63 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 , 71 , 72 , 73 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 , 78 , 79 , 80 , 81 , 82 ].…”