Effect of CoFe₂O₄ and NiFe₂O₄ Nanoparticles on Dielectric and Piezoelectric Properties of Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) Nanocomposite Films

Our research ventures into the realm of flexible piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs), a field brimming with potential for harvesting sustainable energy from diverse sources. We have taken a novel approach, developing a highly flexible PENG by harnessing the power of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and its nanocomposites. The β-phase content and crystallinity of the PVDF-based composite films are meticulously evaluated using Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The peak-to-peak output voltage of pure PVDF, PVDF/CoFe₂O₄, and PVDF/NiFe₂O₄ composite-based PENGs are 101 mV, 2.47 V, and 1.9 V, respectively. The enhanced output efficiency of the flexible PENG is a direct result of the electroactive polar phases produced in the PVDF when the nanomaterials are incorporated. This pioneering work underscores the potential of a PVDF/CoFe₂O₄ and PVDF/NiFe₂O₄ composite film-based PENG as a feasible energy harvester for wearable and portable devices.