University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel high-voltage piezoelectric device using flexible, biocompatible materials. This invention demonstrates record piezoelectric voltages achieved through a self-assembled monolayer of oligopeptides paired with a thin dielectric polymer. These devices offer significant advantages over existing technologies, including high voltage output and simple manufacturing processes, opening up new possibilities in sensor technology and flexible electronics.
Description
Piezoelectric materials generate electric charges in response to applied mechanical stress, making them valuable in various sensor and energy harvesting applications. Traditional piezoelectric materials often require complex manufacturing and suffer from limitations such as low response or high cost. The University of Pittsburgh's new technology introduces a flexible, bio-compatible piezoelectric material composed of self-assembled oligopeptides. These devices can produce large piezoelectric voltage responses without the need for electrical poling, achieving open-circuit voltages of nearly 6V under gentle bending. This improvement enables a new class of flexible piezoelectric sensors that are stable, easy to manufacture, and capable of generating significant voltages.
Applications
- Flexible and wearable sensors
- Medical devices
- Energy harvesting technologies
- Touch and force sensors in consumer electronics
Advantages
This technology offers several key advantages: it utilizes a thin dielectric polymer layer that enhances stability and prevents shorts, enabling the production of record-breaking piezoelectric voltages. The self-assembled oligopeptide monolayers facilitate a simple manufacturing process while delivering substantial voltage responses. These features make the devices highly suitable for integration into flexible, wearable electronics and other applications requiring high-voltage outputs from compact, bio-compatible materials.
Invention Readiness
The invention is currently at the prototype stage, with demonstrated success in generating high piezoelectric voltages under practical conditions. The underlying technology builds upon a previously patented method (US9985197B2), extending its applicability to high-voltage devices. Continued development is focused on optimizing peptide selection and device architecture to further enhance performance and expand potential use cases.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240324466A1
