Direct-Current Nanogenerator Driven by Ultrasonic Waves

TLDR

The device uses vertically aligned ZnO nanowire arrays beneath a zigzag metal electrode; ultrasonic waves move the electrode, bending the nanowires and via piezoelectric‑semiconductor coupling converting mechanical motion into continuous DC output. The resulting nanogenerator delivers continuous direct‑current output and offers a low‑cost, adaptable platform for harvesting ambient energy to power nanodevices.

Abstract

We have developed a nanowire nanogenerator that is driven by an ultrasonic wave to produce continuous direct-current output. The nanogenerator was fabricated with vertically aligned zinc oxide nanowire arrays that were placed beneath a zigzag metal electrode with a small gap. The wave drives the electrode up and down to bend and/or vibrate the nanowires. A piezoelectric-semiconducting coupling process converts mechanical energy into electricity. The zigzag electrode acts as an array of parallel integrated metal tips that simultaneously and continuously create, collect, and output electricity from all of the nanowires. The approach presents an adaptable, mobile, and cost-effective technology for harvesting energy from the environment, and it offers a potential solution for powering nanodevices and nanosystems.