Multilayer nanocomposite films with enhanced piezoelectric properties doping PZT nanofibers

Abstract

Flexible electronics components, including wearable sensors, miniature energy supply devices, and energy harvesting systems based on polymer piezoelectric materials, have garnered extensive attention. This study focuses on the preparation of PZT nanofibers (PZT NFs) via electrospinning and their modification with polydopamine, the fabrication of PVDF/PZT NFs nanocomposite films through casting, and the production of tri-layer nanocomposite films using hot pressing. The alignment of the PZT NFs perpendicular to the electric field direction enhances the breakdown strength (Eb) and facilitates the polarization of the nanocomposite films. At the interlayer interfaces within the tri-layer structure, electron traps extend the breakdown path, attenuating charge concentration and mitigating the electric field concentration effect. Consequently, the tri-layer films exhibit excellent electrical properties. Notably, the P4P tri-layer nanocomposite films have a high Eb of 290.47 kV/mm and a piezoelectric coefficient of -24 pC/N. This paper presents a promising strategy for enhancing the piezoelectric properties of polymer piezoelectric materials applied in sensors and energy harvesting systems.