Institute of Solid State Physics


Asier Alvarez

Physical modelling and experimental verification of self sustained electronical devices for electric nanoharvesting

The objective of this thesis is the modelling and development of new electric nanogenerators based on electromechanical effects. This goal will be achieved through computational modelling and finite element simulation of the devices, followed by experimental verification of the results. The development of new concepts such as the internet of things demands novel ways to power devices that must operate independently and in many cases wireless. A possibility to achieve this is through in situ energy generation, which would allow self-powered devices. Harvesting the vibrational energy present in almost any environment through piezoelectric effects has already been proven possible, although the outcome is still low. However, in 2012 an electric harvester based on the triboelectric effect was presented (Chen & Wang). Thus, the primary objective of the thesis will be to combine piezoelectricity and triboelectric effect in a single, ultrathin electric harvester. For doing so, Multiphysics simulations will be carried on in order to identify the optimal geometrical and electromechanical parameters. Then, the results will be proved by manufacturing a device and characterizing it. This thesis will be accomplished in the research group Hybridelectronics and Structuring led by Dr. Barbara Stadlober at the Materials institute of JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, headed by Dr Paul Hartmann. This group has a long experience in the developing of thin film piezoelectric devices and is well suited for nanostructuring and printing processes. They have also characterization tools such as AFM, SEM, tensile test machines and testing setups for piezoelectric devices. Apart from that, access to Multiphysics simulation software (COMSOL) will be provided.