Energy harvesting and wireless communication by carbon fiber-reinforced polymer-enhanced piezoelectric nanocomposites

Piezoelectric Internet of Things (IoT) sensors with energy-harvesting capabilities, which can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, promote battery-less systems. Such sensors can harness the vibration generated by spacecraft and other moving objects, eliminating the need for external power sources or battery replacements, thereby improving the autonomy and reliability of the system. This study investigates the features of a novel piezoelectric vibration energy harvester (PVEH) that comprises a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) electrode. The CFRP electrode provides outstanding electrical conductivity (7190 S/m) and enhances the mechanical characteristics of the energy collector, thereby ensuring a steady electrical energy yield during resonance. The piezoelectric composite consists of potassium sodium niobate (KNN) nanoparticles mixed with epoxy resin. Results show that when the KNN content is about 30 vol%, the piezoelectric properties of d33 and d31 are 15.21 pC/N and − 5.68 pC/N, respectively. Under an applied displacement of 0.05 mm, the CFRP-reinforced PVEH (C-PVEH) provides an impressive output energy volume density of 89.61 μW/cm3, which is capable of lighting LED bulbs with ease. Notably, this technology shows great application potential for powering wireless communication systems, indicating a remarkable advancement in the field of self-powered IoT sensors. This study provides valuable insights into the potential application of this groundbreaking technology.