Progress in Zinc Oxide-Based Polymer Nanocomposites for Advancing Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Devices

Abstract

Piezoelectric materials convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and are used as sensors, actuators, and energy harvesters in Industry 4.0. Polymer nanocomposites with adjustable performance and affordability could transform piezoelectric technology. Fluoropolymers like poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and its copolymers are common in developing these composites with various nanoparticles. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is promising due to its non-centrosymmetric structure, high piezoelectric coefficient, and versatile nanostructure synthesis. This review covers recent trends in fabricating and optimizing piezoelectric polymer nanocomposites based on fluoropolymers and ZnO, including synthesis principles and advanced methods. It examines approaches to enhance piezoelectric and physical properties, emphasizing PVDF/ZnO composites' applications. The review also discusses challenges and future directions, serving as a resource for researchers and industry professionals aiming to improve piezoelectric materials for next-generation use.