A comprehensive flexoelectric model for droplet interface bilayers acting as sensors and energy harvesters

Abstract

Droplet interface bilayers have found applications in the development of biologically-inspired mechanosensors. In this research, a comprehensive flexoelectric framework has been developed to predict the mechanoelectric capabilities of the biological membrane under mechanical excitation for sensing and energy harvesting applications. The dynamic behavior of the droplets has been modeled using nonlinear finite element analysis, coupled with a flexoelectric model for predicting the resulting material polarization. This coupled model allows for the prediction of the mechanoelectrical response of the droplets under excitation. Using the developed framework, the potential for sensing and energy harvesting through lipid membranes is investigated.