IMB-CNM PhD Thesis Defense: Development of novel materials and low-cost devices for mechanical energy harvesting
By Marcos Duque, predoctoral researcher at the IMB-CNM
Supervisor:
- Dr. Gonzalo Murillo Rodríguez (IMB-CNM)
Abstract
The doctoral thesis addresses the critical challenge of the energy dependence of the Internet of Things (IoT). As it expands, its ability to improve efficiency, productivity and convenience in sectors such as industry, health, agriculture, and smart cities is undeniable. However, this growth has increased the demand for new energy sources to power the IoT wireless sensors, posing significant sustainability and energy efficiency challenges. In response to this problem, the research of the thesis focuses on developing innovative solutions to make IoT sensors energetically self-sufficient through the concept of Energy Harvesting (EH), which involves the capture and conversion of environmental energy into usable electricity. This approach is based on the use of piezoelectric and triboelectric materials to generate energy from mechanical vibrations, magnetic fields and human movement.
The thesis is divided into two main areas of research: triboelectric and piezoelectric materials. In the first case, a comprehensive research is being carried out on the principles of contact electrification to develop efficient energy collectors, capable of powering sensors with the simple pulse of the palm of the hand. On the other hand, in the field of piezoelectric materials, two different approaches are being explored. On the one hand, 3D printing is used to integrate piezoelectric materials into structures designed to capture vibrational energy, while on the other hand, the potential of MEMS devices (Microelectromechanical systems) for energy capture is investigated. Within the scope of MEMS, a study focused on the capture of energy from ultra-low-intensity magnetic fields is carried out. Furthermore, the possibility of combining MEMS technology with printed electronics, especially through the ink injection printing process, is being explored in order to merge these technologies and create innovative devices for collecting vibrational energy.
In addition to research, economic, environmental and sustainability considerations are addressed, with particular emphasis on the use of lead-free materials and the optimization of manufacturing processes through quick prototyping techniques. In short, the thesis offers a perspective on how to address the challenge of energy dependence in the context of the IoT, proposing innovative solutions that promise to pave the way towards a more sustainable and energy efficient future.
