Enhancing Piezoelectric Output via Constrained Phase Separation on Single Nanofibers: Harnessing Endogenous Triboelectricity

Abstract

The research, fabrication and development of piezoelectric nanofibrous materials offer effective solutions to the challenges related to energy consumption and non-renewable resources. However, enhancing their electrical output still remains a significant challenge. Here, a strategy of inducing constrained phase separation on single nanofibers via shear force was proposed. Employing electrospinning technology, a polyacrylonitrile/polyvinylidene difluoride(PAN/PVDF) nanofibrous membrane was fabricated in one step, which enabled simultaneous piezoelectric and triboelectric conversion within a single-layer membrane. Each nanofiber contained independent components of PAN and PVDF and exhibited a rough surface. The abundant frictional contact points formed between these heterogeneous components contributed to an enhanced endogenous triboelectric output, showcasing an excellent synergistic effect of piezoelectric and triboelectric response in the nanofibrous membrane. Additionally, the component mass ratio influenced the microstructure, piezoelectric conformation and piezoelectric performance of the PAN/PVDF nanofibrous membranes. Through comprehensive performance comparison, the optimal mass ratio of PAN to PVDF was determined to be 9 ∶1. The piezoelectric devices made of the optimal PAN/PVDF nanofibrous membranes with rough nanofiber surfaces generated an output voltage of 20 V, which was about 1. 8 times that of the smooth one at the same component mass ratio. The strategy of constrained phase separation on the surface of individual nanofibers provides a new approach to enhance the output performance of single-layer piezoelectric nanofibrous materials.

Keywords

nanofibrous membrane / constrained phase separation / endogenous triboelectric effect / dual-component / piezoelectric property

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Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(52373281)

National Energy-Saving and Low-Carbon Materials Production and Application Demonstration Platform Program, China(TC220H06N)