Harnessing Piezoelectric and Magnetorheological Materials for Next-Generation Energy Harvesting and Soft Actuators
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64229/0cb16n63Keywords:
Piezoelectric Materials, Magnetorheological Materials, Energy Harvesting, Soft Actuators, Smart Materials, Hybrid Composites, Intelligent SystemsAbstract
The burgeoning fields of wearable electronics, autonomous systems, and soft robotics demand innovative solutions for power generation and actuation that are efficient, adaptable, and can operate across diverse environments. This review article explores the synergistic potential of two distinct classes of smart materials—piezoelectrics and magnetorheological (MR) materials—in addressing these challenges. Piezoelectric materials, which convert mechanical strain into electrical energy, offer a compelling pathway for ambient energy harvesting from vibrations, biomechanical motion, and other mechanical sources. Conversely, magnetorheological materials, whose rheological properties (e.g., viscosity, modulus) can be rapidly and reversibly tuned by an external magnetic field, provide unparalleled capabilities for developing high-force, responsive soft actuators and dampers. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the fundamental mechanisms, recent material advancements, and application landscapes for both technologies. For piezoelectrics, we discuss developments in inorganic (e.g., PZT, PMN-PT), organic (e.g., PVDF), and biocompatible materials, focusing on their integration into flexible and high-performance energy harvesters. For MR materials, we examine the evolution of MR fluids, elastomers, and gels, highlighting their use in compliant yet powerful actuators, adaptive dampers, and haptic interfaces. Crucially, we dedicate significant attention to the emerging paradigm of hybrid systems that integrate piezoelectric and MR functionalities. These multifunctional composites can enable self-sensing, self-powered, and tunable actuators—a significant leap toward truly intelligent systems. The article also identifies key challenges, including material durability, efficiency optimization, and integration complexities, while outlining future research directions focused on machine learning-driven design, bio-inspired architectures, and sustainable material choices. By providing a unified perspective on these two transformative material systems, this work aims to catalyze further innovation in next-generation energy harvesting and soft actuation technologies.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel Keegan, Liam Kauri (Author)
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