Enhanced energy harvesting performances of flexible piezoelectric nanocomposite based on CNTs@PZT nanofibers network

Abstract

Flexible organic/inorganic piezoelectric nanocomposites are highly demanded for flexible wearable electronic devices due to their excellent mechanical flexibility and high piezoelectric performance. However, the output performance of ceramic-polymer-based piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) is restricted by the poor electrical conductivity of the organic matrix and the distinct discrepancy in mechanical strength between inorganic filler and organic matrix. Herein, we propose a flexible piezoelectric polymer nanocomposite based on CNTs@PZT nanofibers (NFs) network where the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were introduced into the piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate (PZT) NFs to simultaneously improve the electrical conductivity and mechanical strength of nanocomposites. When subjected to a periodical bending deformation, the CNTs@PZT NFs network-based PENG with optimal addition of CNTs (0.6 wt%) generates a maximum electrical output up to ∼12.5 V and ∼80 nA cm−2 which is four times higher than that of PENGs without CNTs doping. An ultrahigh power density of 91.7 nW cm−2 is obtained with an external load resistance of 40 MΩ when pressed via a 10 N compressive force, and furthermore, the generated power could charge a capacitor and further light a commercial LED. This work may pave a new way for the development of high-output nanocomposite-type PENGs.