One-dimensional KNN micro rods doping to facilitate the energy conversion performance of a KNN MRs/P(VDF-TrFE) composite

Piezoelectric self-powered electronic devices can convert ambient mechanical vibrations into electrical energy in an environmentally friendly manner, significantly alleviating the scarcity of non-renewable sources. This work prepares an one-dimensional potassium sodium niobate micro rods (1D KNN MRs) using the molten salt - topological chemical reaction method, showing the significant advantages over 0-dimension (0D) nanoparticles due to its anisotropy. Simultaneously, KNN MRs are introduced into poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) to form a KNN MRs/P(VDF-TrFE) piezoelectric composite, effectively facilitating the piezoelectric β-phase in P(VDF-TrFE) film, and contributing to a high remnant polarization (Pr ∼12.3 μC/cm2) at 125 MV/m and a high piezoelectric constant (d33=-28 pC/N). Interestingly, a piezoelectric sensor assembled by KNN MRs/P(VDF-TrFE) composite shows a considerable piezoelectric output of 17.6 V at a scene of 2.5 MPa stress, offering a novel route for designing the optimum ceramic/polymer combinations suitable for mechanical energy conversion and energy harvesting.