POJECT REPORT ON

A STUDY ON
PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL IN CIVIL
ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS
B. tech project
Submitted in

In Partial Fulfilment For the Award of the Degree of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY

CIVIL ENGINEERING

By

KRISHNA KUMAR YADAV 210303104070

DHARMENDRA KUMAR YADAV 210303104088
ARJUN KUMAR MANDAL 210303104064
AJAY KUMAR YADAV 210303104087

Under the supervision of

Asst prof. Alka Tomar

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

PARUL INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

PARUL UNIVERSITY P.O. LIMDA-391760 GUJRAT, INDIA

1
 CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Project Report entitled ”PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL IN CIVIL
ENGINEERING APPLICATION” submitted by Krishna Kumar Yadav(210303104070),
Dharmendra kumar yadav (210303104088), Arjun kumar mandal (210303104064), Ajay kumar
yadav (210303104087) has been carried out under the guidance of Asst.Prof. Alka Tomar. The
project repoet is approved for submission requirement for project in 6 th semester in Civil
Engineering from Parul University, Vadodara, Gujrat.

Asst.Prof. Alka Tomr Dr. Vrajesh Patel

Project Guide Project Coordinator

Prof. Rina Chokshi

Associate Professor Head
Civil Engineering Department
Parul Institute of Engineering and Technology

Parul University

2
 Acknowledgements

Behind our major work, which is experienced by every member in our platoon, there have been
numerous hurdles and critical situations. In these moments, this person helped us to progress one
step closer and paved a path to success. It's truly inspiring and fills us with immense pride to work
under the guidance of our esteemed companion, Asst. Prof. Alka Tomar, who saw potential in us
that we didn't see in ourselves. It's a great honor to say that we gained a deeper understanding of
ourselves during your mentorship.

Krishna Kumar Yadav-210303104070

Dharmendra Kumar Yadav-210303104088
Arjun Kumar Mandal-210303104064
Ajay Kumar Yadav-210303104087

CIVIL, PIET
Parul University,
Vadodara

3
 Abstract

Piezoelectric materials possess unique properties that enable their application in various fields,
including civil engineering. This paper explores the utilization of piezoelectric materials in civil
engineering applications, focusing on their ability to convert mechanical energy into electrical
energy and vice versa. The paper discusses the principles of piezoelectricity and highlights the
potential benefits of incorporating piezoelectric materials in structural health monitoring systems,
energy harvesting systems, vibration control devices, and smart infrastructure technologies.
Furthermore, case studies and examples of piezoelectric material applications in civil engineering
projects are presented to illustrate their effectiveness in enhancing the performance, durability,
and sustainability of infrastructure. Through a comprehensive review and analysis, this paper aims
to provide insights into the current state of piezoelectric material utilization in civil engineering
and future directions for research and development in this promising field.

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Table of Contents
Acknowledgements 3

Abstract 4

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION OF PROJECT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2 PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIALS

2.1 CRYSTALS . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.2 PIEZOCERAMICS MATERIALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.3 POLYMERS. . . . . . . . 4

3 CIVIL ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS OF PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIALS

3.1 STRUCTURAL CONTROL APPLICATIONS …….………………………………......

3.2 STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING APPLICATIONS

.................................................................................................. 6

3.3 ENERGY HARVESTING APPLICATIONS............................................................... 6

4 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE OF PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIALS

5 LITERATURE REVIEWS

6 METHODOLOGY 12

6.1 MATERIALS

6.2 METHODS

6.3 MODELLING

7 FUTURE WORK 14

8 CONCLUSION 18

9 REFERENCES 19

5
Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION OF PROJECT

Buildings are typically constructed with residential, economical, and commercial purposes in mind.
Functionality, comfort, and life safety are therefore expected features.1. Some research has been
done recently on smart material approaches in an effort to achieve these aspirations.2,3 Buildings
are known to account for 35% of global energy use.4 Furthermore, it is evident that concrete, the
primary building material, releases approximately 40% of carbon dioxide and may eventually cause
worldwide issues. It is crucial for structures to generate their own energy in order to avoid this.
Vibrations from machines, people moving around, environmental blasts, passing large vehicles,
earthquakes, and winds can all affect structures.
5 By manipulating these vibrations that affect the structure, energy can be obtained simultaneously
by using piezoelectric materials that provide electrical energy under mechanical stress or
mechanical stress under electrical energy. By doing this, the building will generate its own energy
and use less energy from the world's natural resources.Six Buildings can use piezoelectric materials
as energy generators to run water heating and ventilation systems.7. Apart from the energy issue,
seismic activity resulting from the movement of subterranean faults causes vibrations that travel the
entire planet, severely damaging infrastructure.
Certain guidelines for shielding buildings against earthquakes have also been adopted in the
literature. These ideas, which are predicated on buildings surviving without collapsing, have been
incorporated into modern standards.8,9 It has been noted that when the Standards were put into
place, structures experienced significant earthquake damage and the number of fatalities fell.
Nonetheless, because the Standards are predicated on the ideas of great strength or preventing the
collapse of structural elements due to damage, researchers have focused their attention on distinct
ideas.

Applications like structural control and structural health monitoring have been created to guarantee
people's high comfort levels and the ability of buildings to be used immediately before, during, and
after any dynamic action (such an earthquake or wind).10 Four categories of structural control
systems—passive base isolation systems, active control systems, semiactive control systems, and
hybrid control systems—are investigated.11 Even though the passive base isolation systems are
effective at managing the structures, they are unable to adjust to potential seismic activity.
12, 13 However, with the drawback of requiring a sizable external power source, active control
systems may react to any earthquake by employing the appropriate system tools and control
algorithms.14 Structural stability issues can also arise from the external power supply's harmonic
operation, the right active system tools, and control algorithms.15 Additionally, semiactive or
hybrid control solutions have been created that employ the self-adaptive characteristics of active
6
control systems to counteract any earthquake while simultaneously using passive isolation systems
to stabilize behavior by absorbing earthquake energies at the isolation level.
.16 One benefit of this control system is that, because it uses very little external power, it functions
in the event of a power outage similar to a passive isolation system for the hybrid control system.16
Under the effect of static or dynamic loads, such as wind or earthquakes, the structures may
eventually become unstable. The systems for monitoring structural health have been devised to
identify any problems or damages within the buildings.
17.17 Using digital sensors, structural health monitoring is a type of damage detection carried out
by the dynamic features of the buildings, such as natural frequencies, mode forms, and damping.18,
19 For structural health monitoring (SHM), the researchers have created nondestructive tests such
pulse echo testing (RM-center), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements (EISM)
(RM-center), and ultrasonic testing (RM-center). 20, 21 But these tests have also brought to light a
new, more expensive method of doing structural health studies: looking for structural flaws all
across the world.22 Because of their low weight, affordability, and environmental friendliness,
piezoelectric materials have become an invaluable tool in studies pertaining to structural health
monitoring systems.23 Recently, the structural health monitoring method known as
electromechanical impedance (EMI) has made it possible to determine local damage by interacting
with the structure with high-frequency excitation through the use of a piezoelectric transducer. 24
Using the artificial neural network (ANN) of EMI, local damage assessments are performed by
comparing the impedance response of the damaged structure with the impedance response of the
undamaged structure.25, 26 The piezoelectric material sticking to the structure is checked for
voltage using a signal analyzer or an impedance generator. Damage detection is possible because
the mechanical impedance of the monitored structure is reflected in the electrical impedance of the
piezoelectric transducer.27 Because piezoelectric materials can produce mechanical stress with an
electric field and electrical energy with mechanical pressure, they can be employed as digital
sensors for damage detection.

In order to create a control force opposing the forces operating within the structure, they might be
utilized as an actuator.28 By giving the actuator electrical energy, the sensitivity of the piezoelectric
materials is utilized in structural control techniques and damage detection. Predicting a material's
early strength is another application for it in structural engineering. Investigating the mechanical,
electrical, and physical characteristics of piezoelectric materials is the primary goal of this work,
with applications including energy harvesting, structural control, and health monitoring. The
usefulness of a piezoelectric material in civil engineering applications is covered in the conclusion.
It also concludes what kind of novel approach piezoelectric materials will bring to civil engineering.
.

7
Chapter 2

PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIALS
When subjected to static or dynamic stresses, piezoelectric materials can detect deformation and
vibration. They can also be used as sensors in structural engineering and as actuators when an
electric field is present.28, 29 The polarization of the piezoelectric materials as depicted in Figure 1
is necessary for them to exhibit these characteristics. The behavior of these materials is depicted in
Figure 2. The polarization direction is depicted in Figure 2a, the applied pressure force's positive
voltage output is implied in Figure 2b, and the reversed force's negative voltage output is shown in
Figure 2c.Figure 2d shows the elongation of the piezoelectric material in the direction of
polarization, while Figure 2e shows the reverse shortening for the applied voltage. Figures 2b and c
show the generator that generates electricity in reaction to mechanical motion, and Figures 2d and e
show how the piezoelectric material behaves as a motor.

2
where emn stands for dielectric conductivities for constant stress, and T, D, S, and E are the stress,
strain, and electric field, as well as the cji anisotropic elastic stiffness coefficient and the
piezoelectric stress coefficients. The piezoelectric efficiency is greatly influenced by the
electromechanical coupling coefficient (k), the piezoelectric voltage coefficient (g), and the
piezoelectric charge coefficient (d), in addition to these factors.30, 33
The axes defined in Figure Figure 33 are related to the subscripts given in the equations. For
instance, it can be described as the electric displacement unit applied in the third direction, the
electric field generated by the applied unit stress, or the stress it causes in the third direction.34

8
Figure 1

Polarization stages of piezoelectric material: (a) condition before electric field is created, (b)
effect of electric field, (c) polarization condition. Reprinted with permission from ref (7).
Copyright 2019 Elsevier.

Figure 2

Behavior of piezoelectric materials: (a) polarization direction, (b) applying compression to the
element, (c) applying tension to the element, (d) applying an electric field in the positive
direction, (e)
applying an
electric field
in the negative
direction

9
Figure 3
Axis sets of subscripts representing piezoelectric efficiency.

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2.1. CRYSTALS
Three categories of crystalline piezoelectric minerals are investigated: tourmaline, Rochelle's salt,
and quartz (SiO2). Impressive qualities of quartz include its great stiffness, safety, longevity,
resistivity to high temperatures, and durability. thirty-five It is not thought to be highly appropriate
for use in damage detection and structural control applications since it is unlikely to function in
high-frequency excitation. However, the concrete industry used quartz as a source of aggregate to
construct an integrity with cement-based components because of its mechanical strength and low
CO2 emission. With their high piezoelectric voltage coefficient (g), tourmaline and crystalline
tourmaline are utilized in hydrophones, which are pressure measuring instruments, to regulate the
frequency of radio wave propagation.37 Rochelle's salt, sometimes referred to as potassium sodium
tartrate, is a highly sensitive piezoelectric substance that is synthesized. Moreover, Rochelle's salt
has a very high piezoelectric constant and is unaffected by unfavorable environmental factors.

2.2. PIEZOCERAMICS MATERIALS

The two most well-known piezoceramic materials are barium titanate (BaTiO3) and lead zirconate
titanate (Pb–Zr–Ti).37 In applications involving actuators and transducers, these materials are
typically chosen. It is applied by forming ceramic materials in powder form into the appropriate
discs, cylinders, plates, or thin films.38 They are typically separated into two groups: soft materials
and hard materials.39 Hard type materials are appropriate for high voltage and high power generator
and transducer applications because they can tolerate high electrical impulses and mechanical
strains.The dielectric constant and sensitivity of soft type materials are high. Nevertheless, these
materials are not appropriate for usage in harsh environments since internal heating can occur in
them. They can be used in low-power generators, low-power motor-type converters, and a range of
sensors.39 The most widely used electronic ceramic on the market is PZT, which is made up of
lead, zirconate, and titanate (Pb–Zr–Ti) components. It is remarkable for its exceptional qualities
and suitable for a variety of additions. The PZT materials are more sensitive and capable of working
at higher temperatures than barium titanate (BaTiO3).
Physically robust, chemically inert, and somewhat inexpensive to produce are the attributes of the
PZT. However, because it contains lead, it may have a detrimental impact on the environment. Both
the curing temperature (working temperature) and the PZT dielectric constant are comparatively
high. Because of their high electromechanical coupling coefficients, PZT-based energy harvesters
are more effective in transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Electronic components like transducers, actuators, sensors, and capacitors are also made from
barium titanate.34 When a tiny bit of metal is added, it transforms from being an insulator to a
semiconductor.34 Regarding alternatives to PZT that don't harm the environment, lead-free barium
titanate comes highly recommended.41 When evaluating PZTs for usage in civil engineering
structure health monitoring regions, consideration should be given to their high strain coefficients,
high piezoelectric voltage coefficient for electrical efficiency, and Young's modulus for durability.
PZT with the code PIC 255 has a thickness of 0.5 mm and is made in the required format in the
literature that offers this efficiency. This material has a Young's modulus of 62.89 GPa and a tensile
constant of −7.15 Cm–2. PZT is employed as an extremely thin element because of its high
capacitance, which is used to generate electrical energy.

11
2.3. POLYMERS
Polyvinylidine di fluoride is the most well-known polymer for its piezoelectric qualities (PVDF).43
PVDF is a polymer that is both resilient to mechanically applied force and flexible.44 The
importance of polymers has increased since the production of ceramic materials is more fragile and
difficult than that of polymers. Applications requiring intricate and large-scale shapes are better
suited for polymers.Forty It is widely utilized in lithium-ion batteries as well as the chemical,
semiconductor, medical, and defense industries. It can be injected, molded, or welded. As cross-
linked closed-cell foam, which is being utilized more and more in aerospace applications, it is also
favored.45PVDF is a non-toxic material that is extensively utilized as insulation in electrical cables
because of its low thermal conductivity, flexibility, resistance to chemical and high-temperature
corrosion, and lightweight nature. Tactile sensor arrays are made by utilizing the piezoelectric
characteristics of PVDF. Lightweight sound transducers, low-cost strain gauges, and tactile sensor
arrays are all made possible by PVDF's piezoelectric qualities.44 Piezoelectric polymers, in addition
to PVDF, include polypropylene (PEP), microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), cyclo-olefin polymers
(COP), and parylene C.In general, MFCs are chosen in acoustic emission sensors, cyclo-olefin
polymers are preferred in loudspeakers, and parylene C is preferred in MEMS microphones. In the
manufacturing of accelerometer sensors, PVDF, polypropylene, and fluorinated ethylene propylene
are typically utilized. On the other hand, PVDF functions in the high frequency range, monitors
acceleration over a wider range, and is more sensitive than other piezoelectric polymers used in the
manufacture of accelerometers. From the standpoint of civil engineering, it is anticipated that PVDF
will be preferable in this instance in order to record acceleration measurements more precisely in
high vibration ranges.46 When compared to analogous PZT ceramic solutions, piezoelectric PVDF
foils appear to be quite promising.The most popular piezoelectric materials come in a range of
varieties, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. These are a some of the benefits that PVDF has
over PZT: Compared to PZT, PVDF is less expensive, doesn't age, and is resistant to breakage in
adverse environments.41 When combined with other building materials, PVDFs provide a superior
composite since they may be formed as fibrous materials.

PVDF may be manufactured using injection molding and is very resistant to chemicals. It is also
noncombustible. Polymer piezoelectric materials are more resilient to high vibrations and have a
longer lifespan in energy harvesting than ceramic materials because they are mechanically more
flexible than ceramic materials. Polymer piezoelectric materials necessitate intricate forms and are
easier to make. In a sensor application, PVDF responds to mechanical stress by producing a greater
voltage and electric field. The voltage coefficient, or g constant, of PVDF is higher than that of
piezoceramics.47The usage of PVDF in sensor applications is becoming widespread. It is
lightweight, convenient, flexible, strong, and easy to manufacture when compared to PVDF ceramic
piezoelectric materials. The following is a list of PZT's benefits over PVDF: PVDF's material
stretching and polarization difficulties, as well as its relatively low curing temperature of 105 °C.
PVDFs can be utilized as sensors or actuators, however PZTs are used as standalone sensors and
actuators. Compared to PZT, PVDF has lower piezoelectric coefficients.44

12
In applications related to civil engineering, PVDF thickness at the micrometer level is required in
order to extract energy from the material under any vibration effect. Furthermore, large values of
PVDF's d13 and d33 piezoelectric constants should be favored. In order to extract energy from
vibrations, Song et al. (2017) employed 50 μm thick PVDF films with a Young's modulus of 4.18
GPa and d13 and d33 coefficients of 23.4 and −32.5 Pc/N, respectively.48

The piezoelectric coefficients of the most widely used piezoelectric materials today are given
in Table 2

Table 2
Piezoelectric Coefficients of Piezoelectric Materials34
Materials Typical d (Pc/N) g (× .10–3 V m/N)
Quartz Cyrstal 2.3 50
Rochelle salt Cyrstal 2300 Very low
Barium titanate Ceramic 191 12.6
PZT Ceramic 289 25.9
Polyme
PVDF –33 –339
r

13
Chapter 3

CIVIL ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS OF

PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL

Energy harvesting systems, structural control, structural health monitoring, mechanical

observations, deformation measurements, and seismic base isolation systems are the primary uses of
piezoelectric materials in civil engineering. Three categories were used in this work to analyze
piezoelectric materials: energy harvesting systems, structural control systems, and structural health
monitoring.

3.1 STRUCTURAL CONTROL APPLICATIONS

Actuators are one of the primary uses for piezoelectric materials. Structural control systems also
employ these actuators extensively. This section presents these kinds of applications.

Since piezoelectric materials offer a high output force, a compact size, and low weight, they have
been used as actuators in structural control systems.49,50 In order to transfer vibrational energy
from the movable base to the top platform and produce a particular control force, piezoelectric
actuators are typically positioned in between the two. Actuators employ controllers, such as a linear
quadratic regulator (LQR), to apply control forces in order to achieve active vibration control.51
Recently, there has been a lot of focus in the literature on the control of displacements and
accelerations in structural components that are achieved by employing piezoelectric materials.52, 53
Using the differential quadratic approach, Zarei et al. (2018) examined the dynamic behavior of a
beam encased in a piezoelectric material that was used as both a sensor and an actuator.54

Using the feed-forward technique, Schoeftner et al. (2019) actuated a piezoelectric transducer to
lower the dominant stress in a one-dimensional bar to zero.55 They converted the equations of
motion with two degrees of freedom into differential equations including displacement, voltage, and
electric field. To turn on the piezoelectric transducer, they created a mathematical model that
depended on both static and frequency.
A single-frequency harmonic excitation test was carried out experimentally to confirm the
simulation results based on the mathematical model. Figure Figure44 displays the mathematical
model used in the investigation. The transducer with a single bonded mass at the free end of the
piezoelectric transducer is connected to the stacking actuator in Figure 44a. Mass, rigidity, and
damping are the characteristics of piezoelectric elements in this context. After breaking down
Figure 44a into a system with two degrees of freedom, Figure 44b—a dynamic model—is
produced.

14
Figure 4
Suggested dynamic model to control stress: (a) the geometry of the system, (b) the dynamic model of
the system. Reprinted with permission from ref (55). Copyright 2019 Wiley.

The masses of the stack actuator and piezoelectric transducer are denoted by mA and mT,
respectively. The piezoelectric transducer force (FT) and the stack actuator force (FA) can directly
alter the axial stress because it was expected that the tension was evenly distributed throughout all
parts. Consequently, an electric field applied to the transducer can reset the FT force when there is
an electric field present in the stack actuator. From this angle, the Laplace field is used to apply
Newton's dynamical law for the evaluation of equations 3 and 4.

In this case, the absolute Laplace-transformed displacements of the two effective masses are
denoted by xT and xA, respectively, and s is the Laplace transform coordinate. To describe the
internal forces mentioned in the equations, it has been converted into two linear equations linking
displacements and the electric field. To explain the small damping, the viscoelastic properties of
piezoelectric materials are considered. Equations 5 and 6 specify the structural behavior in light of
these characteristics.

Here, the member's elastic stiffness (k) and viscous parameter (d) are defined. The piezoelectric
constant (c) and the voltage (V) applied to the element are displayed. Compute the displacement and
internal force in relation to the voltage applied to the element in the equations using simple logic.
The associated transfer functions are then calculated, assuming that one of the two electrical
voltages in the two piezoelectric elements vanishes.

3.2 STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING APPLICATION

Effective, simple-to-use, and affordable monitoring systems allow for the assessment of damage
levels and structural integrity by keeping an eye on the structural health of existing steel or
reinforced concrete structures in seismic zones.71 It is utilized as a sensor in PVDFs that can be
integrated into a wireless system for large-scale structural health monitoring systems because of its
adaptability, thin size, affordability, and wireless system. Piezoelectric transducers with layered
structure (PWA) are lightweight devices that combine PZTs as sensors and actuators into the
structure.73,74 Next, sensors for light-layer piezoelectric transducers were created.75 This kind of
sensor makes it feasible to nondestructively observe damages, particularly the crack type damages,
using Lamb waves.76–78 Alem et al. (2016) presented a Lamb waves and embedded piezoelectric
transducer-based damage diagnosis technique for plate structures. It was found that the damage
index could identify cracks and where they were located. PZT sensors are employed in dynamic and
15
wave propagation analyses in addition to electromechanical impedance.80 Damage assessments are
conducted using dynamic factors, such as damping, frequency, and the structure's mode shapes,
using the signals produced by these techniques. The installation and expense of structural health
monitoring studies that combine

sensors manufactured using piezoelectric materials and EMI techniques must also be taken into
account. The so-called artificial sensor was created for smart aggregate structural health monitoring
research integrated in concrete as a solution to this issue.

Concrete piezoelectric smart modules (CPSM), which mimic smart aggregates, were designed by
Song et al. (2011).Piezoelectric patches and waterproof RTV silicone make up 83 CPSMs.82, 84,
85 Piezoceramic materials are used to make CPSMs. As a result, the piezoelectric element's voltage
is perpendicular to the most conductive surface.86 The strong electromechanical and piezoelectric
constants of piezoceramic materials make them the ideal choice for use as actuators or sensors.87
Since the detection approach is sensitive to cracks in the directions of voltage wave propagation, it
can be applied to concrete structures. One CPSM is used as a sensor, and the other as an actuator.

The signal from the sensor is recorded by the piezoceramic actuator. When a warning signal is
detected, the signal shift suggests that the structure is damaged, particularly if there is a crack.89
Therefore, both direct and reverse piezoelectric effects are involved in the processes of damage
detection and structural health monitoring.90 One way to achieve the relationship between the
piezoelectric material and the structure is to either embed the piezoelectric material into the
structural member or glue it to the surface using epoxy. Adhered to the surface, piezoelectric
materials are prone to losing their functioning when subjected to changes in humidity or
temperature. In this instance, embedding the piezoelectric material into the structural part is thought
to be more logical.

The piezoceramic materials used in structural health monitoring systems have been the subject of
numerous studies. Voutetaki et al. (2012) used smart piezoelectric materials to monitor FRP-
reinforced concrete members under dynamic load.92 Xu et al. (2013) used PZT sensors to track the
structural behavior of steel elements filled with concrete.93 Hughi et al. (2015) used reinforced
concrete tube and reinforced concrete beam tests to examine the impact of fracture width on
monitoring systems.

3.3 ENERGY HARVESTING APPLICATION

One of the greatest methods for addressing the world's energy crisis without depleting natural
resources is the study of energy harvesting systems over the years.108 A microgenerator, which
transforms ambient energy into electrical energy, and a voltage amplifier, which pumps the energy
by controlling the generator voltage, are the two primary components of an energy harvesting
system.109 We include piezoelectric materials—PZT and PVDFs—in our mix as they are typically
employed to produce electrical energy. Piezoelectric materials function as transducers in energy
harvesting systems by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.50,111,112 PZT and
PVDF are favored in power generating applications because to their high longitudinal piezoelectric
coefficient (d33).113,114 Piezoelectric materials, however, are insufficient to power devices
running at high frequencies since they are appropriate for low frequency circumstances in energy
harvesting systems.115 With the same geometry, PZT has a higher resonance frequency and a
modulus of elasticity that is 25 times greater than PVDF.116 On the other hand, it is believed that
PVDF can also be used in energy harvesting devices due to PZT's fragility. While PVDF's flexible
nature is a benefit in energy harvesting devices, it does not have the same high voltage conversion
coefficients as PZT.Piezoelectric materials have been used in energy harvesting devices by 119
researchers.In a finite-element setting, Zhao et al. (2011) examined piezoelectric stacks and

16
electrical energy transfer units subjected to a cymbal force. They discovered 1.20 MW of power at a
frequency of 20 Hz and a stress of 0.7 MPa.121 An energy-harvesting ground module with a high
coupling coefficient piezoelectric material was designed by Kumar et al. (2013). They discovered
that increased voltage output may be achieved by connecting piezoelectric materials in parallel and
by increasing the number of piezoelectric modules per unit area.122 By creating a porous polymer
composite membrane-based

nanogenerator (PPCNG) and a wireless self-powered ferroelectric nanogenerator (FTNG), Ghosh et

al. (2016) solved the polarization issue of piezoelectric materials in high-frequency
environments.123

In order to improve the power production performance of the cantilever piezoelectric transducers,
Saxena et al. (2017) examined the impact of mass shape and created a pyramidal mass structure.124
Numerous studies on energy harvesting systems utilizing piezoelectric materials on roadways have
been carried out by researchers and published in international literature.125 Piezoelectric energy
collection systems are typically used to gather vibration energy from moving cars, pedestrians, and
other roadside objects.126 One way to employ energy harvesting technologies that might be an
individual's power generator is to gather the kinetic energy from walking, which is one of the
sources of electricity for low-power gadgets.127 In 2008, Yoshiyasu created a pavement-
implemented energy gathering device.128 He clarified that he can obtain up to 250 kW of electrical
energy per km when there are 500 vehicles. According to Xiong et al. (2012), electrical energy can
be produced from the deformations brought about by vehicle processing and movement on
pavements.129 By maximizing the appropriate piezoceramic types for road mechanical energy
harvesting, Najini et al. (2013) carried out theoretical investigations on the viability of current
piezoelectric transducers for piezoelectric power coatings. In their 2014 study, Yuan et al. tried
railway piezoelectric power converters and achieved 30 MW of power.130 In order to achieve
energy harvesting from pavements, Wang et al. (2015) created two types of piezoelectric power
producing asphalt concrete made of piezoelectric and asphalt (pavements) components. The
outcomes demonstrated that a piezoceramic material with a diameter of 35 mm and a thickness of
0.4 mm may satisfy the technical specifications for power coating. The electrical output response
that they measured was 14 V.131 In order to extract energy from road traffic, Yang et al. (2017)
examined the best suitable piezoelectric transducer in a finite-element setting.132 Izrin et al. (2017)
designed a power converter using a half-wave rectifier for raindrop energy application to convert
the damping alternating present (AC) produced by PVDF to direct current (DC). Basically, raindrop
energy was generated by converting the kinetic energy of the raindrop into electrical energy-using
polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectricity.133

Two varieties of U-shaped interlayer copper foil electrodes and lateral lead electrode structures
were proposed by Wang et al. (2018). Examining the effectiveness of devices made using
piezoelectric stacks for pavement energy collection was their goal.134 Figure 2929a illustrates a U-
shaped interlayer copper foil electrode. It is suggested to lessen the short-circuit effect and improve
wire welding in layers in terms of quality, mass production, and efficiency. With the use of
conductive silver paint adhesive, a copper foil sandwiched between each piezoelectric ceramic
component was electrically connected to its upper and lower silver electrodes. To weld the wire, the
U-shaped pin at one end of each copper foil serves as the interlayer copper foil's external electrode.
For a piezoelectric stack with comparatively few piezoelectric ceramic layers, the interlayer copper
foil electrode arrangement is appropriate. Should additional layers need to be layered, the equivalent
quantity of copper foil electrodes will lessen the overall piezoelectric stack's effective thickness and
erode its bond with the route structure. As a result, the lateral electrode shown in Figure 2929b is
likewise suggested. The silver electrode area of each piezoelectric ceramic is extended to the side
end surface, and the wires are directly welded to the side end electrode area.

17
Figure 5

Proposed piezoelectric energy harvesting structures: (a) U-shaped interlayer copper foils, (b) lead-
containing lateral electrode structure. Reprinted with permission from ref (134). Copyright 2019
Elsevier.

According to the results, at 0.7 MPa stress, the units with the U-shaped interlayer copper foil
electrode and the lateral lead electrode had an ideal load resistance of about 20 kΩ. The mechanical
test findings revealed that the U-shaped interlayer copper foil units' structural performance is
reasonably robust and long-lasting following 50,000 simulations (MTS) of cyclic loading. The test
results are displayed in Figure 6

18
Figure 7 Test results of energy harvesting systems. Reprinted with permission from ref (134).
Copyright 2019 Elsevier.

In addition to energy generation on roadways, buildings can also use energy production. Because
piezoelectric materials can convert mechanical strain and vibration energy into electrical energy,
they can be used to create sustainable and renewable structures that can sense and produce their own
energy. Thus, the best candidates for the application of piezoelectric energy harvesters and sensors
are buildings that experience extreme vibration and large dynamic loads from wind, earthquakes,
traffic, and human activity.135–136 Energy harvesting is the theorem that enables unused and
wasted energy resources to be converted into electrical energy and used in relevant places. Three
categories of piezoelectric energy harvesting systems are analyzed: nanoscale, micro
electromechanical systems (MEMS), and macro- and medium-scale. Sensor nodes and wireless
network transmitters are two examples of small electrical devices that are frequently powered by
macro and medium harvesting systems, as Figure 3030 illustrates. Chips and structural elements
that are submicrometer in size can be powered using MEMS scale harvesting. As seen in Figure
Figure 3131.138,139, nanometer-scale harvesters can be created as self-powered sensors by
harvesting energy using artificial nanowires.

19
 Figure 8

Energy harvesting from piezoelectric generators and self-powered sensors. Reprinted with permission
from ref (7). Copyright 2019 Elsevier.

20
Chapter 4

4.1 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE OF PIEZOELECTRIC

MATERIAL
It is anticipated that the most significant smart material of the previous century would be
piezoelectric materials, which will help produce energy that is useful to humanity while using less
natural resources. It is anticipated that carbon dioxide emissions will be eliminated from the energy
harvesting of mechanical vibrations through the usage of piezoelectric materials. This is supported
by the fact that the Earth is always vibrating. Natural disasters, including earthquakes, are known to
severely damage buildings and result in fatalities. To safeguard people and buildings from
earthquake damage, structural control strategies, structural health monitoring, and system
identification have been established. Piezoelectric materials can be used as microelectromechanical
sensors to monitor the structure's cracks and strength losses. Additionally, because it can provide
control forces by acting as an actuator when electrical energy is applied, it is favored in structural
control applications. It has been believed over the past century that using piezoelectric materials as
actuators and sensors may help lessen the amount of structural damage that earthquakes cause. It is
also expected to provide electrical energy savings, with buildings to be designed from conductive
structural elements that can generate electrical energy by themselves. It is expected that by
monitoring the health state of the structures using this material approach, the essential studies may
be completed for a structure to use piezoelectric materials to produce its own energy and to activate
the relevant control mechanism. Among these, polymer PVDF and piezoceramic PZT are the most
common. PZT is a significant parameter that contributes to high energy production and is involved
in high frequency domain structural controls as well as structural health monitoring.
However, it is anticipated that PVDF, which is more flexible than PZT, will be utilized because
PZT is predicted to break at high dynamic vibrations. However, it was believed that additional
options should be taken into consideration because of the difficulties of polarizing PVDF. It is
anticipated that further research would be done to make sure PVDF has a polarization property in
dimensions that can withstand dynamic vibrations. Energy harvesting can stop the creation of
energy by using natural resources and avoiding the excessive release of CO2 that could lead to
global warming. Based on the reviewed literature, piezoelectric materials are favored for energy
harvesting applications because of their small size, high power density, and ability to capture
electrical energy from dynamic vibrations and mechanical stress. The studies' suggested
piezoelectric energy harvesting systems were given finite element models, and some dynamic and
static analyses were used. Generally speaking, these systems are made to capture energy from
dynamic vibrations like wind, pedestrian energy, train vibrations, and pavement vibrations.

21
Chapter 5

LITERATURE REVIEWS

5.1

Research Gate

Introduction to Piezoelectric Actuators and Transducers

Author: - Kenji Uchino, International Center for Actuators and Transducers, Penn State University

Date: - June 2003

Abstract :-

Certain materials produce electric charges on their surfaces as a consequence of applying

mechanical stress. The induced charges are proportional to the mechanical stress. This is called the
direct piezoelectric effect and was discovered in quartz by Piere and Jacques Curie in 1880.
Materials showing this phenomenon also conversely have a geometric strain proportional to an
applied electric field. This is the converse piezoelectric effect. The root of the word “piezo” means
“pressure”; hence the original meaning of the word piezoelectricity implied “pressure electricity.”
Piezoelectricity is extensively utilized in the fabrication of various devices such as transducers,
actuators, surface acoustic wave devices, frequency control and so on. In this chapter we describe
the piezoelectric materials that are used, and various potential applications of piezoelectric
materials.

22
LITERATURE REVIEWS

5.2

Polymer composite

Energy harvesting by piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride/ zinc oxide/carbon nanotubes

composite under cyclic uniaxial tensile deformation

Author:- Ajeet Kumar | Satish Jaiswal | Rita Joshi | Siddharth Yadav | Anshu Dubey | Divyam
Sharma | Debrupa Lahiri | Indranil Lahiri

Date:- May 2023

Abstract :-

In this study, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/zinc oxide (ZnO)/carbon nanotubes (CNT) nano-
reinforced composites were fabricated by solution casting method. Addition of ZnO and CNTs
nanoparticles enhances the electroactive polar β-phase of PVDF nanocomposites. Formation of β-
phase in the composites were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray
diffraction analysis. Piezoelectric properties were investigated by applying uniaxial cyclic tensile
deformation with the help of mechanical tensile tester device. The maximum generated voltage peak
of 1.32 V was observed in the case of the nano-reinforced composite having 15% ZnO, with
maximum current of 0.61 μA and power of 0.66 μW. The fabricated PVDF/ ZnO/CNTs nano-
reinforced composites can be a good candidate for human motion-based energy harvesting
applications during walking, running and so forth in which uniaxial deformation occurs.

23
LITERATURE REVIEWS
5.3
Advanced Science

Piezoelectric Materials for Energy Harvesting and Sensing Applications: Roadmap for
Future Smart Materials

Author:- Susmriti Das Mahapatra, Preetam Chandan Mohapatra, Adrianus Indrat Aria, Graham
Christie, Yogendra Kumar Mishra,* Stephan Hofmann,* and Vijay Kumar Thakur*

Date:- 2021

Abstract :-

Piezoelectric materials are widely referred to as “smart” materials because they can transduce
mechanical pressure acting on them to electrical signals and vice versa. They are extensively
utilized in harvesting mechanical energy from vibrations, human motion, mechanical loads, etc.,
and converting them into electrical energy for low power devices. Piezoelectric transduction offers
high scalability, simple device designs, and high-power densities compared to
electro-magnetic/static and triboelectric transducers. This review aims to give a holistic overview
of recent developments in piezoelectric nanostructured materials, polymers, polymer
nanocomposites, and piezoelectric films for implementation in energy harvesting. The progress in
fabrication techniques, morphology, piezoelectric properties, energy harvesting performance, and
underpinning fundamental mechanisms for each class of materials, including polymer
nanocomposites using conducting, non-conducting, and hybrid fillers are discussed. The emergent
application horizon of piezoelectric energy harvesters particularly for wireless devices and self-
powered sensors is highlighted, and the current challenges and future prospects are critically
discussed .

24
LITERATURE REVIEWS

5.4 Gexin
publication

Effect of Fabrication Conditions on the Performance of Porous Polyvinylidene Fluoride

(PVDF) Piezoelectric Sensors under Compression

Author:- Jared A. Tucker 1 , Matthew J. Danley 2 , Jack T. Kloster 3 , Ping Zhao 3 , & Victor K.
Lai

Date:- 07th July, 2021

Abstract :-

Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) is a piezoelectric polymer that has many different applications
and uses. Two measurable characteristics of PVDF films are the conformation of the polymer
chain and the piezoelectric output. There has been little investigation on how different abrication
factors can influence both characteristics. The goal of this study is to determine how different
factors can have an effect on the chain conformation and the piezoelectric output of porous PVDF
films. To fabricate the PVDF films, PVDF powder was dissolved in 2-butanone and 40 wt% of
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were added to the solution. Once the film was dried, the ZnO
nanoparticles were dissolved using 10M hydrochloric acid to leave a mesoporous PVDF film. The
fabrication factors studied were (1) the total sample weight of PVDF and ZnO, (2) the amount of
2-butanone solvent, and (3) the % solvent removed in the oven before air-drying. To determine the
effect of the fabrication factors, the films were characterized mechanically via an instantaneous
compressive load using a tensile tester and measuring the peak voltage generated, and structurally
using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to estimate the fraction of electroactive
chain conformation. It was determined that the total amount of PVDF had a significant effect on
the piezoelectric voltage output from the compression tests, while the amount of solvent affected
the relative amounts of the different crystalline phases. Interestingly, normalizing the voltage
output per PVDF mass shows diminishing returns in voltage generated with increasing amount of
PVDF. Unexpectedly, no direct correlation between amount of electroactive chain conformation
and the piezoelectric output was observed, which suggests other confounding factors (e.g., pore
size distribution, PVDF network architecture) that may influence the piezoelectric voltage output.

25
LITERATURE REVIEWS

5.5
IOSR Journal of Applied Physics (IOSR-JAP)

Piezoelectricity in PVDF and PVDF Based Piezoelectric Nanogenerator: A Concept

Author:- Binoy Bera1,*, Madhumita Das Sarkar2 n

Date:- May- june 2017

Abstract :-

Polyvinylidene fluoride or simply PVDF is one of the most important semicrystalline polymers
which generate piezoelectricity when a pressure or mechanical force applied on it. It has four
crystalline phases α, β, ɣ and δ depending on the chain conformation structure. Among them α is
non polar phase and β and ɣ are polar phase. Piezoelectricity in PVDF arises due to the β and ɣ
phase formation. Several materials have been introduced for the preparation of nanogenerator.
Among them PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) is most interesting material used in nanogenerator
preparation due to its flexibility, bio- compatiable, nontoxic in nature. It is used in nanogenerator
application due to its good ferroelectric, piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties. In this article we
describe little bit concept about PVDF, its piezoelectricity and PVDF based nanogenerator.
Application of piezoelectric nanogenerator is also briefly described here

26
Chapter 6

METHODOLOGY
MATERIALS METHODS MODELLING

6.1MATERIALS
Good piezoelectric qualities, mechanical strength, durability, and suitability for the pile building
process are requirements for piezoelectric materials used in piezoelectric piles. The following
materials are frequently used to create piezoelectric piles:

1. Lead zirconate titanate, or PZT, is a commonly used piezoelectric material that has good
electromechanical coupling qualities and high piezoelectric coefficients. It can be used for a
number of purposes, such as pile energy collecting.

2. PVDF, or polyvinylidene fluoride, is a lightweight, flexible polymer having piezoelectric qualities.

It is appropriate for integration into the surface layers of piles or as a component of composite
materials since it may be manufactured into thin films or coatings.

3. Lead Magnesium Niobate-Lead Titanate, or PMN-PT, is an additional ceramic material that has a
high piezoelectric coefficient and may be able to harvest energy more efficiently than PZT. It
might be more expensive and difficult to manufacture, though.

4. Barium titanate, or BaTiO3, is a ceramic substance that is frequently utilized in piezoelectric

devices. Despite having lower piezoelectric coefficients than PZT, it may still be appropriate for
some energy harvesting applications.

5. Lithium niobate, or LiNbO3, is a single-crystal substance having strong temperature stability and
high piezoelectric coefficients. When high-performance piezoelectric materials are needed, it is
frequently utilized in specific applications.

6. Composites: By fusing the mechanical and piezoelectric qualities of ceramics, composite materials
—like polymer-ceramic composites—offer a compromise between piezoelectric performance and
flexibility.

The necessary piezoelectric qualities, mechanical needs, environmental factors, and financial
considerations are some of the elements that influence the choice of piezoelectric material. To
maximize energy harvesting effectiveness, piezoelectric components included into the pile
structure and their design are just as important as the material itself.

27
6.2 Methods

When piezoelectric materials are used to capture energy from PZT (Prestressed Concrete Tubular)
piles, the method is referred to as "vibration energy harvesting" or "structural health monitoring."
This is how it usually operates:

1. Integration of Piezoelectric Materials: The PZT piles incorporate piezoelectric materials, which
produce an electric charge in reaction to mechanical stress or vibration. In order to capture
vibrations caused by external forces like wind or traffic loads or by structural dynamics, these
materials are frequently positioned strategically within or around the pile structure.

2. Energy Harvesting Mechanism: The piezoelectric materials distort when the PZT pile vibrates as a
result of external forces or structural movements, producing electrical energy in the form of
voltage. The piezoelectric effect is the name given to this phenomena.

3. Energy Conversion and Storage: Using the proper electronic circuits and energy storage devices,
like capacitors or batteries, the electrical energy produced by the piezoelectric materials is
subsequently converted and stored. Usually, these parts are located inside or close to the pile
structure.

4. Use of Harvested Energy: Depending on the application, the harvested energy can be put to a
variety of uses. It might power structural integrity monitoring sensors, including strain gauges or
accelerometers, in the context of structural health monitoring. It can serve as a reliable power
source in various applications, such those involving wireless sensors or remote monitoring
systems.

5. Optimization and Efficiency: To increase the energy harvesting efficiency of the PZT pile,
engineers can arrange and position the piezoelectric materials in the best possible way. This
includes taking into account the mechanical characteristics of the piezoelectric materials in
addition to the frequency and amplitude of vibrations.

6. Monitoring and Maintenance: To guarantee the energy harvesting system's dependable

performance over time, routine monitoring and maintenance are necessary. This could entail
routine testing of the energy storage systems, electronic parts, and piezoelectric materials in
addition to calibration of the monitoring sensors.

In general, PZT piles combined with piezoelectric materials present a viable method for
monitoring structural health and harvesting sustainable energy in civil engineering applications.
They can lessen their influence on the environment while assisting in enhancing the resiliency and
effectiveness of infrastructure.

28
6.3 MODELLING

Prototype structure Number of PZT piles Shape of Piles

1.GEOMETRY AND The total area of PZT piles Three shapes,

MATERIALS is 4 cm2. It shows that all which are square,
stresses decrease with round and hexagon,
PROPERTIES
increasing PZT piles of PZT piles are
number. Considering the compared through
2.FINITE ELEMENT
stress, displacement, costs FEA. . It shows that
ANALYSIS (FEA) and stability of structure, the PZT with round
piles number of 8-16 is shape has less
suggested for one
concentrated stress.
pavement generator.
This shape is
suggested for PZT
piles of pavement
generator.

29
Chapter 7

7.1 FUTURE WORK

PZT (Prestressed Concrete Tubular) piles have a bright future ahead of them thanks to possible
technological developments and broad acceptance across numerous industries. The following are
some important areas where PZT piles may have a big future impact:

Infrastructure Sustainability:

PZT piles provide an environmentally friendly way to gather energy for construction projects such
offshore constructions, buildings, and bridges. PZT piles may provide clean energy without using
fossil fuels by utilizing structural dynamics and ambient vibrations, which improves the
sustainability and robustness of civil engineering projects.

PZT piles outfitted with energy harvesting systems can power sensors, actuators, and
communication devices used to monitor and control various aspects of urban infrastructure, such
as traffic, pollution, and structural health. This enables real-time data collecting and decision-
making, resulting in better urban management and resource efficiency.

PZT piles provide an integrated solution for structural health monitoring by combining energy
harvesting and sensing technologies. Piezoelectric sensors incorporated in PZT piles can detect
changes in structural qualities such as cracks, deformation, or vibration frequencies, allowing for
early warning of probable failures and improving infrastructure system safety and reliability.

PZT piles can supplement renewable energy sources like solar and wind power by absorbing
energy from mechanical vibrations as well as other sources. This diverse energy harvesting
technique improves total energy resilience while reducing reliance on intermittent renewable
sources, resulting in a more stable and sustainable energy grid.

PZT piles outfitted with energy collecting systems can also act as active noise barriers in urban
areas, capturing and converting acoustic energy into electrical power. This dual functionality
reduces noise pollution while also generating renewable energy, resulting in a win-win solution
for urban sustainability and quality of life.

In isolated or severe situations where standard power sources are scarce or unfeasible, PZT piles
provide a self-sustaining energy source. PZT piles can work autonomously and dependably in
adverse environments, making them suitable for off-grid infrastructure projects, remote
monitoring stations, and marine structures.

Overall, the future of employing PZT piles for energy harvesting applications looks promising,
with prospects for innovation, integration, and scalability across multiple sectors. As the demand
for sustainable infrastructure and smart technologies rises, PZT piles will play an important role in
influencing the future of energy harvesting and infrastructure development.

30
8.1 CONCLUSION:
To summarize, the use of PZT (Prestressed Concrete Tubular) piles for energy harvesting is a
convincing solution with numerous benefits in civil engineering and beyond. PZT piles, which
incorporate piezoelectric materials into their structures, have the capacity to harness mechanical
vibrations and convert them into useful electrical energy, so contributing to sustainability,
resilience, and creativity in infrastructure projects.To fully grasp the potential of PZT piles for
energy harvesting applications, additional research and development activities are required. Future
projects should prioritize material and technological advancements, optimization of energy
harvesting efficiency, validation through field trials and real-world deployments, and collaboration
among stakeholders in academia, industry, and government.
HEREBY , Piezoelectric materials are fascinating substances that can convert mechanical energy
into electrical energy and vice versa. They have numerous applications in various fields, including
sensors, actuators, transducers, and energy harvesting devices. With ongoing research and
development, piezoelectric materials continue to play a crucial role in advancing technology and
finding innovative solutions to various challenges.

31
REFRENCES:
1. "Performance of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Piezoelectric Piles for Structural
Health Monitoring of Bridges

2. "Experimental Investigation of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Piles for Vibration Control
of Civil Structures"

3. "Numerical Modeling of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Piles for Energy Harvesting in
Geotechnical Engineering"

4. "Field Applications and Performance Evaluation of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Piles
in Bridge Health Monitoring"

5. "Review of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Piles in Structural Control and Health
Monitoring of Civil Infrastructure"

6. K Uchino. Ferroelectric Devices[M]. New York: CRC press, 2010

7. A Heinzmann, E Hennig, B Kolle, et al. Properties of PZT Multilayer Actuators[C]. 8th

International Conference on New Actuators, Bremen,Germany, 2002

8. Dogan. Flextensional “Moonie and Cymbal” Actuators [D].Pennsylvania: The

Pennsylvania State University, 1994

9. G H Haertling. Compositional Study of PLZT RAINBOW Ceramics for Piezo Actuators

[C]. Proceedings of the Ninth International Symposium on Applications of Ferroelectrics,
University Park, PA, USA , 1994

10. K Mossi, G Selby, and R Bryant. Thin-Layer Composite Unimorph Ferroelectric Driver
and Sensor Properties[J]. Mater. Lett., 1998, 35: 39-49

11. S J Roundy. Energy Scavenging for Wireless Sensor Nodes with a Focus on Vibration
to Electricity Conversion [D]. Berkeley: the University of California, 2003

12. Smart Material Corp. What is a Macro Fiber Composite?[EB/OL] http://www.smart-

material.com. 2010/2012

13. H Zhao, Y Liang, J Ling. Study of Harvesting Energy From Pavement Based on
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