25 February 2010

Piezoelectric devices behind pioneering energy harvesting research

  • A piezoelectric disk generates a voltage when deformed (change in shape is greatly exaggerated)

Morgan Technical Ceramics and Glyndwr University have joined forces to design and build an energy harvesting demonstration system designed to provide a renewable source of energy.

The Shorter Knowledge Transfer Partnership (sKTP) project will last 26 weeks and will result in the creation of a system based on piezoelectric devices. These will then be connected to a mat that will collect and store energy from footfall for reuse.

According to Dr Ashley Darby, business manager - Piezo Shapes, Morgan Technical Ceramics, the project will look at how to best match the electronics to the piezo ceramic to develop more efficient energy harvesters. A proof of concept prototype will then be constructed.

Dr Darby said: "Industry is under increased pressure to find alternative renewable energy sources and to improve energy efficiency. By carrying out this sKTP in collaboration with Glyndwr University we can share our knowledge and expertise to innovate and identify opportunities for energy harvesting utilising piezoelectric ceramics"

Samantha Clutton, business engagement executive, Glyndwr University, added: "We are delighted to be working with Morgan Technical Ceramics on this short KTP. This project will allow us to learn from each other and together we can push boundaries in the field of energy harvesting."

Author
Chris Shaw

Supporting Information

Websites
http://www.glyndwr.ac.uk
http://www.morgantechnicalceramics.com

Companies
Morgan Technical Ceramics

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