Optimizing MEMS-Based Energy Harvesting with Piezoelectric and Thermoelectric Polymer Composites

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 01 | Page : 221 237
    By

    M.BharathChakravarthy,

  • B Santhan Krishnan,

  • T Satyanarayana,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Electrical Engineering, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Professor, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, LBR College of Engineering, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

This research explores the development and performance of polymer-based composites, particularly Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) and Electro active Polymers (EAPs), in MEMS-based energy harvesting systems. PVDF, a flexible piezoelectric material, is combined with ceramic powders such as lead zirconatetitanate (PZT) to enhance its piezoelectric response while retaining mechanical flexibility. EAPs, including ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) and dielectric elastomers, are investigated for their ability to generate electrical power from mechanical deformations, offering unique advantages for wearable and portable energy harvesting applications. The study also examines thermoelectric polymer composites incorporating conductive fillers like carbon nanotubes and graphene, which convert thermal gradients into electricity with high flexibility and ease of fabrication. Simulation results demonstrate that these composites significantly improve the mechanical and electrical performance of MEMS energy harvesters, enhancing energy conversion efficiency, mechanical flexibility, and conductivity. The findings highlight the potential of PVDF and EAP composites in creating advanced, efficient energy harvesting devices for applications such as wearable electronics and vibration-based energy systems. This work provides insights into the integration of polymer composites in MEMS devices, paving the way for future research and development in flexible, high-performance energy harvesting technologies.

Keywords: Polymer Composites, Electro active Polymers (EAPs), Piezoelectric Materials, Thermoelectric Composites, Energy Harvesting

[This article belongs to Journal of Polymer and Composites ]

How to cite this article:
M.BharathChakravarthy, B Santhan Krishnan, T Satyanarayana. Optimizing MEMS-Based Energy Harvesting with Piezoelectric and Thermoelectric Polymer Composites. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2024; 13(01):221-237.
How to cite this URL:
M.BharathChakravarthy, B Santhan Krishnan, T Satyanarayana. Optimizing MEMS-Based Energy Harvesting with Piezoelectric and Thermoelectric Polymer Composites. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2024; 13(01):221-237. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2024/view=181034


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 13
Issue 01
Received 26/09/2024
Accepted 28/10/2024
Published 05/11/2024
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