Design and Finite Element Analysis of the Electromechanical Performance of Functionally Graded Composites

Abstract

Piezoelectric composites constitute one of the components for energy harvesting; they are more flexible than piezoelectric ceramics despite having a low output voltage problem. In this study, a new model was proposed for the finite element analysis of functionally graded composite (FGC) specimens composed of barium titanate particles and polyvinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene. Finite element analysis of energy harvesting showed that the FGC produced a higher output voltage than that of the homogeneous composite. This trend was consistent with the results of the piezoelectric coefficient measurement tests related to the energy harvesting of the actual fabricated FGC specimens. This study effectively shows that functionally graded structures enhance piezoelectric properties, thereby directing future structural design from an experimental and analytical point of view.