journal article·2025-01Open access

Monolithic Integration of Printable PVDF‐TrFE Piezoelectric Multifunctional Devices: From Sensing to Actuation

Yeji Lee, Vineeth Kumar Bandari, Varun Paul Paliakkara, Sheila Monteiro Augusto, Rico Ehrler, Olav Hellwig, Sebastian Amann, Klaus Stöwe, Robert Thalheim, Oliver G. Schmidt

Advanced Functional Materials· Volume 35· Issue 3

Abstract

Abstract This study demonstrates the development of multifunctional printable piezoelectric actuators using PVDF‐TrFE and PEDOT:PSS, capable of operating at low voltages and supporting a wide range of applications. By leveraging the high piezoelectric coefficient of PVDF‐TrFE and the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS, the actuators exhibit stable performance with precise inkjet printing deposition and optimized waveform parameters. The fabrication process integrates inkjet printing and standard lithography, enabling monolithic integration for high‐performance actuation and multifunctional sensing. The PVDF‐TrFE‐based actuators achieve low‐voltage operation (as low as 50 V), efficient energy transfer, and mechanical stability. Enhancing the beta phase of PVDF‐TrFE resulted in a deflection of ≈600 µm and vortex generation, crucial for lift in aerial robotic applications. Durability tests confirmed minimal performance degradation after 2,300 actuation cycles. Beyond mechanical deflection, the actuators exhibit sound detection and strain sensing capabilities. Experimental evaluations validated their ability to differentiate sound frequencies, detect muscle strain, and replicate bio‐inspired flight dynamics. A preliminary proof of concept for a double‐wing structure demonstrated lift generation at low voltages and resonant frequencies. The results indicate that these piezoelectric actuators are well‐suited for miniaturized robotic applications, particularly in aerial locomotion and multifunctional sensing, opening new possibilities for innovations in micro‐robotics, wearables, and aerial robotics.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Biomimetic flight and propulsion mechanisms · Tactile and Sensory Interactions

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Research Center for Materials Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN) Chemnitz University of Technology 09126 Chemnitz Germany

Material Systems for Nanoelectronics Chemnitz University of Technology 09107 Chemnitz Germany

Institute of physics Faculty of natural science Chemnitz University of Technology 09107 Chemnitz Germany

Institute of chemistry Faculty of natural science Chemnitz University of Technology 09107 Chemnitz Germany

Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems ENAS 09126 Chemnitz Germany

International Institute for Intelligent Nanorobots and Nanosystems (IIINN) Fudan University Shanghai 200438 China

Funding

H2020 European Research Council · Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

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