Novel 3D printed PZT-based piezoceramics for piezoelectric energy harvesting via digital light processing

Structure optimization is a highly effective way for enhancing the power output of piezoceramics. However, due to the high hardness and brittleness of these materials, traditional manufacturing methods are limited in their ability to optimize structures. Moreover, achieving new designs using the emerging digital light processing (DLP) technology is hindered by poor curing performance of piezoceramic slurry. To overcome these issues, this study proposes an innovative strategy of using the original powders as printing materials for DLP technology. Notably, the use of lead carbonate powders, rather than lead oxide, significantly improves the curing characteristics and printability of ceramic slurry. Additionally, lanthanum oxide powders are introduced as dopants to enhance the electrical properties of PZT ceramics. The printed piezoceramics exhibit excellent piezoelectric and dielectric performance under optimal La3+ content, coupled with superior transduction coefficient, electromechanical coupling factor and output voltages and currents. Our findings suggest a groundbreaking approach for fabricating piezoceramics with high energy-harvesting performance and complicated designed structure via digital light processing.