Manufacturing of zinc oxide structures by thermal oxidation processes as scalable methods towards inexpensive electric generators

Abstract Micro and nanostructured zinc oxide coatings were prepared from anticorrosive or cold galvanized spray paint with 93% of metallic zinc, which has been applied over glass and steel substrates as a thin film. Then, the substrate-films were processed with different methods including direct flame and a regular furnace open to air, for producing the piezoelectric materials via oxidation at high temperature. Different characterization was conducted in this research, not only materials but also the piezo-electric response. The materials characterization included scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction techniques. The piezoelectric response of the fabricated materials was tested in an experimental cantilever setup with a voltage amplification circuit, which data was recorded through an oscilloscope. Results of microscopies confirmed the generation of ZnO nanowires and other micro and nano materials features for some of the samples in which the furnace was used. The sample composition was always confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Piezo electric response experiment showed the functionality of the fabrication method and the generated materials.