Measuring Piezoelectric Output—Fact or Friction?

Abstract

Piezoelectric polymers are emerging as exceptionally promising materials for energy harvesting.While the theoretical figures of merit for piezoelectric polymers are comparable to ceramics, the measurement techniques need to be retrofitted to account for the different mechanical properties of the softer polymeric materials. Here, how contact electrification is often mistaken for piezoelectric charge is discussed, through friction and contact separation, and a perspective for how to separate these effects is provided. The state of the literature is assessed, and recommendations are made for This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.clear and simple guidelines in reporting, for both sample geometry and testing methods, to enable accurate determination of piezoelectric figures of merit in polymers. Such improvements will allow an understanding of what types of material manipulation are required in order to enhance the piezoelectric output from polymers and enable the next generation of polymer energy harvester design.

Skin‐Inspired Piezoelectric Tactile Sensor Array with Crosstalk‐Free Row+Column Electrodes for Spatiotemporally Distinguishing Diverse Stimuli

“…In this experiment, a steel bar used to stimulate the surface of the tactile sensor array is connected to the ground electrode, which eliminates the triboelectric effect on piezoelectric signal output. [ 40 ] For touch stimuli, we test the sensor with different pressure amplitudes. As shown in Figure 3b, a large pressure corresponds to the large output voltage and the real‐time waveform of the output voltage clearly shows the opposite phase of the two layers.…”

Conductive Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: Current State and Future Outlook

“…Naturally, bone exhibits piezoelectric potential, converting applied mechanical stresses into electrical currents within itself. This innate ability has been studied experimentally, both in vitro and in vivo using various piezoelectric biomaterials and modes of deformation as a means to prompt cells to migrate, as well as to promote greater deposition of bone forming minerals [ 116 , 117 , 118 ]. This phenomenon has also been used as an effective adjuvant in many ES therapies to enhance bone regeneration [ 119 ].…”

The intrinsic piezoelectric properties of materials – a review with a focus on biological materials

“…109,110 In fact, it has been conrmed experimentally that under mechanical deformation, bone produces hydroxyapatite mineral, conrming that piezoelectricity in bone is linked to bone growth and remodelling. 111 Piezoelectricity in the lung's elastin has been proposed to have a role in binding oxygen to haemoglobin during respiration. 112 It is also believed that piezoelectricity plays a role in the nervous system for sensing external stimulation.…”