ZnO/PDMS nanocomposite generator: Interphase influence in the nanocomposite electro-mechanical properties and output voltage

Nanocomposite generators convert mechanical energy into electrical and are attractive low-power solutions for self-powered sensors wearables. Homogeneous dispersion, high concentration, orientation of the embedded filler strategies have been assumed to maximize voltage output in nanocomposite generators. This work contrast these assumptions by studying dominance interphase low concentrations (¡10%) random dispersions a ZnO/PDMS generator with peak-to-peak generation capabilities (≈150 V). The was studied analysis dispersion through estimation effective volume fraction (ϕagg) which allowed us identify three levels interaction: individual interphases, interacting overlapping between NPs interphases. is responsible here generated voltage. In addition, impact applying lumped element (LE) interphasial power-law (IPL) models that capture measured voltages electromechanical film properties. obtained results justify engineering interphases could be design strategy generation.