Ferroelectric polymers for energy harvesting

One problem that limits the size and usability of next-generation flexible electronics is that they need periodic recharging or battery replacement. New energy harvesting techniques, such as nanogenerators, provide a simple way to convert ambient mechanical and thermal energies into usable electricity. Ferroelectric polymers, represented by polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and its copolymers, are undoubtedly the most promising materials for nanogenerators due to their high electroactivity, low cost, excellent processability, flexibility, and biocompatibility. Innovations in materials science and device design further enhance the efficiency and energy output of ferroelectric polymer-based nanogenerators, which have demonstrated practical applications in illumination, environmental analysis, motion tracking, health monitoring, self-powered implants, etc. This chapter will summarize the achievements and challenges on the development of state-of-the-art nanogenerators based on ferroelectric polymers.