Hybrid Piezoelectric-Magnetic Self-Sensing Actuator using Novel Dual-Alignment Magnetic/Mechanical Processing for Vibration Control of Whole-Body Vibrations

Multi-stimuli-responsive/-functional polymeric materials can respond to numerous stimuli and execute multiple tasks, overcoming barriers faced by single-stimuli materials. Herein, the development of hybrid piezoelectric-magnetic self-sensing actuator (HPMSA) that can both sense and actuate is proposed. This iron oxide/functionalized carbon nanotube/polyvinylidene fluoride film optimizes both piezoelectric and magnetic properties through dual-alignment fabrication, utilizing strong element bonds for simultaneous alignment. Magnetic nanoparticles are advantageous over nanorods due to latter's randomized shape anisotropy decreasing magnetization. The dual magnetic and mechanical processing increases polar beta-crystal content to 88%, where magnetic alignment alone increases degree of crystallinity to 66%. As a vibration damper, HPMSA operates within 40-600 Hz frequency, with a sensing sensitivity of 2.5 mV g(-1) and 0.72 m s(-2) weighted acceleration damping, lowering passenger health risks. Piezoelectric and magnetic relationship shows 0.19 V increase with 125 mT applied. The flexible HPMSA can integrate onto a curved surface and sense/dampen vibrations of an air motor, propeller drone, and simulated tremors. The HPMSA provides tremendous potential and understanding into multi-stimuli-responsive/functional materials, simultaneous alignment, and vibration control in the next generation of transportation vehicles for human safety.