Core-Shell structures for the enhancement of energy harvesting in piezoelectric Nanogenerators: A review

Abstract

The environmental pollutions caused by rising usage of nonrenewable energy sources spurred researchers to investigate alternative energy systems that can collect energy from the ambient environment. Utilization of unused natural waste mechanical energy sources harvested in piezoelectric nanogenerators will allow for self-sufficient small-scale electronic systems. A comprehensive review is presented on the complex desirable nature of core–shell nanostructures’ capability of circumventing major challenges faced in piezoelectric nanogenerators including the minimization of any signal losses, low piezoelectricity in lead-free materials, insufficient durability, low flexibility, piezopotential screening and tunneling effects. Discussions on the dimensionality and size/shape effects in piezoelectric nanogenerators are highlighted with the addition of the implementation of core–shell nanostructures exploiting the piezo-phototronic effects in solar cells. Finally, the paper provides a current view of the global endeavors gone into piezoelectric nanogenerators and specifically the Middle East and North Africa regions, with future suggestions for better piezoelectric devices in industrial applications.