Discipline: Physics
Subcategory: Materials Science
Eliovardo Gonzalez - California State University, San Bernardino
Piezoelectric materials have the ability to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, and vice versa. These materials have a wide array of uses including, but not limited to; ultrasonic imaging, depth finders, air bag sensors, and gas grill ignition systems. The vast majority of piezoelectric materials are inorganic, for example lead zirconate titanate (PZT). PZT is toxic, so we are seeking environmentally friendly organic alternatives. The piezoelectric properties of a new organic piezoelectric, code named RED were investigated using the Piezoresponse Force Microscopy capabilities of a NT-MDT SOLVER Next atomic force microscope. Results were compared to known piezoelectric materials. RED demonstrated repeatable characteristic piezoelectric curves under ambient conditions showing great promise. The piezoelectric coefficient (d33) was calculated to be 2.2E-6 cm/kV. Future research includes continued testing using other techniques and exploring the semi-conductor properties of this material.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): This research was made possible by The National Science Foundation, grant number 1345163, the Center for Advanced Functional Materials at California State University San Bernardino.
Faculty Advisor: Tim Usher,