Improving the piezoelectric performance of multilayered nanogenerators based on composite polyvinylidene fluoride/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)–polystyrene sulfonate nanofiber structure

Rising global population and increasing energy demand highlight the need for renewable energy sources. Piezoelectric nanogenerators are emerging as promising candidates for sustainable energy production. This study focuses on enhancing the energy conversion efficiency of these devices by modifying their structural configuration. Composite nanogenerators were fabricated using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)–polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) nanofibers through a layer-by-layer electrospinning technique. Multilayer structures with different PVDF-to-PEDOT:PSS volume ratios (100:0, 70:30, 50:50, and 30:70) were analyzed to evaluate the impact of the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS on electrical output. This study addresses two key questions: the impact of PEDOT:PSS on PVDF nanogenerator performance and the optimal composition for enhanced output. Results indicated that incorporating PEDOT:PSS improved both electrical conductivity and crystallinity, with the 50:50 ratio yielding a fourfold increase in output voltage compared to pure PVDF sensor. The results provide valuable insights for designing advanced energy-harvesting devices, with potential applications in wearable electronics, self-power sensors, and sustainable energy systems.