My previous postdoc research was based on energy harvesting (Dielectric Generator) using soft polymeric materials. The animation given below for voltage generation from a piezoelectric disk. But the maximum strain (%) in case of piezoelectric materials is very small (say 5 %), which is more in case of dielectric elastomers. Harvesting of electrical energy can be done using dielectric elastomers with compliant electrodes. There are different mechanical energy sources: wind, bridge/building vibration, human motion, and ocean waves/current, which are remain untapped and wasted. These sources of energy can be utilized to harvest useful electrical energy. Although, there are many challenges in this area, advanced research technology is required to overcome them.
In this postdoc, I was involved in the preparation of different polymeric materials such as hydrogels, conducting polymers, and dielectric elastomers.
In this postdoc, I was involved in the preparation of different polymeric materials such as hydrogels, conducting polymers, and dielectric elastomers.
A Piezoelectric disk generates a voltage when deformed.
