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This content will become publicly available on June 30, 2026

Title: 3D printing of pomelo-inspired piezoelectric composites
Abstract Traditional piezoelectric materials, such as lead zirconate titanate (PZT), are widely used due to their superior ability to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. However, these lead-based ceramics are highly toxic and environmentally hazardous. This report explores Rochelle salt as an eco-friendly alternative, despite its brittleness and lower piezoelectric properties compared to PZT. The study investigates methods to enhance the energy capture of Rochelle salt crystals(RS) by varying crystal volume, impact frequency, and force, as well as by incorporating the 3D-printed biomimetic structure inspired by the pomelo fruit peel, which is naturally optimized for absorbing out-of-plane crushing forces. Experimental crystals grown within this structure were compared with those grown without it, focusing on energy capture and durability. Additionally, units with a 64:36 crystal-to-resin ratio were designed to assess the impact of crystal volume on voltage output. The experiments involved varying impact frequencies (120 rpm and 250 rpm) and compression distances (0.034 and 0.068 inches) using a digital oscilloscope and a custom crank slider mechanism. The results indicate that reducing crystal thickness and increasing rpms enhance voltage capture, suggesting that biomimetic structures can significantly improve the mechanical and electrical performance of piezoelectric materials.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2113727
PAR ID:
10645616
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
Publisher / Repository:
IOP Publishing Ltd
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Physica Scripta
Volume:
100
Issue:
7
ISSN:
0031-8949
Page Range / eLocation ID:
075972
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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