Multifunctional PVDF film embedded with surfactant assisted-graphene with excellent piezo-capacitance, piezoelectric and triboelectric properties for various applications

Abstract

Herein, we have developed multifunctional, flexible and self-poled PVDF nanocomposite films incorporated with anionic surfactant-assisted graphene nanoplatelets (S-GNP). The synergistic effect of rapid cooling process and S-GNP promoted electroactive phase content up to >97% (β + γ) of PVDF and assisted in tuning the crystallinity, tensile and dielectric properties of the PVDF/S-GNP nanocomposite (S-PGN-X) films. A flexible piezo-capacitance based pressure sensor offered an excellent response, quick recovery and high sensitivity (1.25 kPa−1) with a wide pressure sensing range (0.25–50 kPa). The sensor was integrated into a shoe sole to monitor the heel and toe pressure. Further, the S-PGN-X based triboelectric device showed excellent performance with a voltage output of >120 V and 175 μW/cm2 power density. The output of the device was sufficient to glow the LED lights, suggesting that it can be used as a sustainable power source for portable devices. Moreover, S-PGN-X based piezoelectric nanogenerator generated a voltage output of ∼19 V upon repeated application of pressure with a good power output of 1.35 μW/cm2. The piezoelectric nanogenerator could charge up a 3.3 μF capacitor up to 1.1 V under repeated finger impartation. Overall, the multifunctional S-PGN-X film with self-poling characteristics showed excellent piezo-capacitance, piezoelectric and triboelectric performance, which makes it a potential material for sensors, energy harvesting and portable electronic devices.