Nanogenerator-based dual-functional and self-powered thin patch loudspeaker or microphone for flexible electronics

TLDR

Ferroelectret nanogenerators are a promising technology for harvesting kinetic energy. The study reports the device’s intrinsic properties that enable bidirectional energy conversion, extending its use beyond power generation in wearable electronics. The device’s electromechanical coupling, flexibility, and thin‑film form enable dual‑function transduction as a self‑powered loudspeaker or microphone patch, and its performance was evaluated by measuring sound‑pressure levels across space and frequency for three configurations. The device’s high performance was validated by integrating it into a music‑playing flag, a sound‑recording film, and a flexible microphone for security applications.

Abstract

Abstract Ferroelectret nanogenerators were recently introduced as a promising alternative technology for harvesting kinetic energy. Here we report the device’s intrinsic properties that allow for the bidirectional conversion of energy between electrical and mechanical domains; thus extending its potential use in wearable electronics beyond the power generation realm. This electromechanical coupling, combined with their flexibility and thin film-like form, bestows dual-functional transducing capabilities to the device that are used in this work to demonstrate its use as a thin, wearable and self-powered loudspeaker or microphone patch. To determine the device’s performance and applicability, sound pressure level is characterized in both space and frequency domains for three different configurations. The confirmed device’s high performance is further validated through its integration in three different systems: a music-playing flag, a sound recording film and a flexible microphone for security applications.