Ferroelectrets are lightweight, flexible electret materials with piezoelectric-like properties, characterized by a cellular or voided microstructure that traps electric charges. They can be engineered to surpass the performance of traditional piezoceramics. Nonetheless, they have some fundamental challenges preventing their widespread use:

  • Charge stability as the trapped charges rapidly decay over time
  • Mechanical fatigue and aging can degrade the microstructure affecting long-term functionality
  • Efficient and uniform charging remains a challenge for optimal piezoelectric response

We aim at solving these challenges through the molecular and induced dipole moment control by:

Material Design
1. Material Design

Molecular dipole moment control through:

  • Polymer functionalization
  • Molecular arrangement
  • Molecular polarity
  • Nanocomposites
Processing
2. Processing

Void and microstructure engineering using:

  • Sustainable foaming techniques
  • Clever porous supports
  • Nano 3D printing
  • Functionalized conformal coatings
Charge Implantation
3. Charge Implantation

Extend lifetime via:

  • Alternative photoionization techniques
  • Morphology optimization
  • Crystallinity control

 

All via a fundamental understanding of their dielectric response