Unleashing the potential: Multifunctionality of PVDF-HFP based ternary nanocomposite films - magnetoelectric, energy harvesting and impact sensing performance

• Published in: Materials chemistry and physics 2024-03, Vol.315, p.129057, Article 129057
• Main Authors: Bhadrapriya, B.C., Basith, Sayyid Abdul, Rahul, M.T., Chandrasekhar, Arunkumar, B, Raneesh, Rouxel, Didier, Kalarikkal, Nandakumar
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Clay; Energy harvester; Impact sensor; Magnetostrictive filler; Polymer nanocomposite; PVDF-HFP
• ISSN: 0254-0584; 1879-3312
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2024.129057

Multifunctional materials are proving to be highly promising for advancing various technologies, including magneto-mechano-electric energy harvesting devices and flexible sensors. This study focused on synthesizing a polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-metal-oxide-layered silicate nanocomposite system using a cost-effective solution casting technique. The performance of the system was evaluated in terms of magnetoelectric behaviour, energy harvesting capabilities, and impact sensing. The nanocomposite films demonstrated a peak-to-peak voltage of 12.2 V with a filler loading of 15 wt% and an applied force of 9 N, along with a magnetoelectric coupling coefficient of 20.6 mVcm−1Oe−1. The device's ability to scavenge biomechanical energy during body movements like foot stamping, arm bending, finger flexing, and wrist bending was successfully verified. Furthermore, rigorous durability testing was conducted through repeated energy harvesting studies, proving the device's practicality and resilience. Notably, the developed device powered up six LEDs and a digital clock, while the impact sensor exhibited a linear relationship between output voltage and impact force. These findings highlight the remarkable potential of the polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-metal-oxide-layered silicate nanocomposite system for multifunctional applications in various technological fields. [Display omitted] •P15 film shows a magnetoelectric coupling coefficient of 20.6 mVcm−1Oe−1.•High-Performance energy generator based on P15 nanocomposite film achieves 12.2 V peak-to-peak voltage.•Effective biomechanical energy scavenging from foot stamping, arm bending, finger flexing, and wrist bending movements.•The device's ability to power six LEDs and a digital clock showcases its resilience and practical energy utilization.•The linear relationship between output voltage and impact force emphasizes its potential for impact sensing applications.