Polymer Composites for Use in Nano-Generators for Energy Harvesting

Polymer composites exhibit unique mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties which makes them a potential candidate in the realm of nanoscale energy harvesting. The incorporation of various materials, such as ceramics, perovskites, and nanomaterials, into polymer matrices enhances the piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and triboelectric capabilities of the composite for utilization in different nano-generators for energy harvesting. Polymer composites-based nano-generators harvest energy from various sources such as vibrations, human movements, and temperature variations. These polymer composite-based nano-generators also hold significant value for the advancements in self-sustaining electronic devices, wearable sensors, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. This chapter covers the basic principles and workings of different types of nano-generators including piezoelectric, triboelectric, pyroelectric, and hybridized nano-generators, followed by the polymer composites utilized in the development and performance enhancement of those nano-generators.