Near-field electrospun piezoelectric fibers as sound-sensing elements

Abstract

A novel integration of three-dimensional (3D) architectures of near-field electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nano-micro fibers (NMFs) is applied to an intelligent self-powered sound-sensing element (ISSE). Using 3D architecture with greatly enhanced piezoelectric output, the sound wave energy can be harvested under a sound pressure of 120+ dB SPL of electrical signal about 0.25 V. Furthermore, the simple throat vibrations such as hum, cough and swallow with different intensity or frequency can be distinguishably detected. Finally, the developed ultrathin ISSE of near-field electrospun piezoelectric fibers has the advantage of direct-write fabrication on highly flexible substrates and low cost. The proposed technique demonstrates the advancement of existing electrospinning technologies in new practical applications of sensing purposes such as voice control, wearable electronics, implantable human wireless technology.