Abstract When a piezoelectric transformer (PT) is actuated at its second harmonic frequency by a low input voltage, the generated electric field at the distal end can be sufficient to breakdown the surrounding gas, making them attractive power sources for non-equilibrium plasma generation. Understanding the potential and electric field produced in the surrounding medium by the PT is important for effectively designing and using PT plasma devices. In this work, the spatiotemporally resolved characteristics of the electric field generated by a PT operating in open air have been investigated using the femtosecond electric field-induced second harmonic generation (E-FISH) method. Electric field components were determined by simultaneously conducting E-FISH measurements with the incident laser polarized in two orthogonal directions relative to the PT crystal. Results of this work demonstrate the spatial distribution of electric field around the PT’s output distal end and how it evolves as a function of time. Notably, the strongest electric field appears on the face of the PT’s distal surface, near the top and bottom edges and decreases by approximately 70% over 3 mm. The time delay between the PT’s input voltage and measured electric field indicates that there is an about 0.45 π phase difference between the PT’s input voltage and output signal. 
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                            Shared electric scooters and electric bikes can reduce traffic in urban centres
                        
                    
    
            Evidence from a policy experiment shows that public safety bans on electric scooters and electric bikes can generate unintended traffic congestion in city centres. The studied ban is found to increase travel times by 9–11% for daily evening commutes and by 37% following stadium events. 
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                            - PAR ID:
- 10444149
- Editor(s):
- Dean, Nicky
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Nature energy
- Volume:
- 7
- ISSN:
- 2058-7546
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 1013-1014
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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