What is piezoelectricity? | Science and Technology News (Amazings® / NCYT®)

2023-07-21 10:58:07

In the fascinating world of science and technology, discoveries have revolutionized our understanding of how electricity and motion interact. One of these discoveries is the piezoelectricitya phenomenon that allows mechanical energy to be converted into electricity.

Piezoelectricity is a physical effect that occurs in certain materials when pressure or mechanical stress is applied to them. These materials, known as piezoelectric materials, have the ability to generate an electrical charge in response to applied mechanical deformation. This means that when they are compressed, stretched or bent, they generate an electrical current proportional to the applied force.

This phenomenon was first discovered in 1880 by the brothers Pierre and Jacques Curie, French scientists, who observed that quartz crystal generated an electrical charge when pressure was applied to it. Since then, numerous piezoelectric materials have been discovered and developed, such as barium titanate, quartz, and certain polymers.

The underlying mechanism of piezoelectricity is based on the crystal structure of piezoelectric materials. These materials are composed of positive and negative ions arranged asymmetrically. When an external force is applied, the ions are displaced, creating a difference in electrical charge and generating an electrical current.

(Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Piezoelectricity has a wide range of practical applications in various fields. One of the best known applications is in piezoelectric transducers, which convert electrical signals into sound waves and vice versa. These transducers are used in loudspeakers, microphones, and ultrasonic systems, such as medical ultrasound equipment.

Another important application of piezoelectricity is in the power industry. Piezoelectric materials are used in vibration sensors and power generators. For example, on some highways, piezoelectric devices have been installed under the pavement to capture the kinetic energy generated by passing vehicles and convert it into usable electricity.

In addition, piezoelectricity is also used in the manufacture of electronic devices, such as accelerometers, actuators, and power generators for wearable devices. Their ability to generate electricity from movement makes them essential components in the microelectronics industry.