Abstract
Continuous efforts are being made for alternative power generation techniques for use in devices with sub-micron-scale dimensions. In this work, we have perused through some of these efforts, focusing mainly on devices using materials with piezoelectric properties. In the last decade or so, nanostructured zinc oxide (ZnO) has drawn worldwide attention for its path-breaking properties. One of its most extensively-studied properties is its ability to generate power when subjected to mechanical vibration. It can generate a potential within a wide range of frequency vibrations, from a few Hz to thousands of KHz. This can lead to extensive application prospects in many important fields, like self-power generating devices for medical applications, wireless technologies and various sensors, etc. This review looks into reports related to such technology in detail. It also takes into account certain other materials that have been reported for piezoelectric energy scavenging applications.
Highlights
Piezoelectric energy harvesters at the sub-micron-scale have infinite scope for research and application in upcoming technologies [1]
We look into the metal oxide semiconductor nanostructures of zinc oxide (ZnO) that can be cost effectively fabricated for their piezoelectric properties and their use in building energy harvesters [12, 13]
We explore the newest devices for self-powered systems - like various microsensors for different sensing applications [21], medical diagnostic applications and drug delivery systems for in vivo therapeutic applications - using piezoelectric energy harvesting methods that could lead to an increase in human life expectations and longevity [22]
Summary
Piezoelectric energy harvesters at the sub-micron-scale have infinite scope for research and application in upcoming technologies [1]. Single crystal materials demonstrate a piezoelectric character similar to that shown by perfectly-aligned polycrystalline ceramic elements [10] We explore those piezoelectric nanostructures that can be used to transform mechanical vibrations into electrical energy and for selfpowering micro-/nanosystems, like micro-sensors for medical diagnostic applications and drug delivery systems for in vivo therapeutic applications [14]. We explore the newest devices for self-powered systems - like various microsensors for different sensing applications [21], medical diagnostic applications and drug delivery systems for in vivo therapeutic applications - using piezoelectric energy harvesting methods that could lead to an increase in human life expectations and longevity [22]. In this review, we look into the key issues for harvesting piezoelectric energy and how nanostructures could be fabricated and assembled to work as a self-powered nano/micro-structured device
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