Solvent-assisted optimal BaTiO3 nanoparticles-polymer composite cluster formation for high performance piezoelectric nanogenerators.

We report on an optimal BaTiO3-P(VDF-HFP) composite thin-film formation process for high performance piezoelectric nanogenerators (NGs). By examining different solvent ratios in a solvent-assisted composite thin film formation process, the BTO nanoparticle (NPs) clustering and related performance enhancements were carefully investigated. Using the optimal process, the fabricated BTO NGs exhibited an excelling output power performance. Under a compressive force of ∼0.23 MPa normal to the surface, the measured open-circuit output voltage and short-circuit current were over 110 V and 22 μA, respectively, with a corresponding peak output power density of 0.48 Wcm(-3). Our results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of a solvent-assisted BTO cluster formation process for fabricating high performance piezoelectric energy harvesting devices.