Work

Piezo‐Phototronic PVDF/HfO 2 /Nano‐Cu Heterostructured Thin Film for Flexible Self‐Powered Multimodal Sensing

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The pursuit of multifunctional sensors has intensified due to their potential for integrated, efficient operation. However, realizing a flexible material that combines simplicity in the fabrication process with high performance and multifunctionality remains a formidable challenge. In this study, a multi‐interface heterostructured nanofiber membrane composed of Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), HfO 2 , and nano‐copper is fabricated, leveraging the synergistic interplay of piezoelectric and piezo‐phototronic effects for flexible, self‐powered sensing. The incorporation of hafnium oxide (HfO 2 ) and nano‐Cu enhances the crystallinity of the piezoelectric β ‐phase and improves the dielectric properties, substantially boosting electromechanical performance. The resultant piezoelectric sensor achieves an output voltage of 15V and maintains stability over 5000 cycles at 5 Hz, enabling precise detection of human motions. Meanwhile, the PVDF/HfO 2 ‐based photodetector exhibits broadband sensitivity (from near‐UV to near‐IR), high photoresponsivity (5.67 mA W −1 ), high detectivity (4.14×10 11 Jones), and rapid response (600 µs rising, 53 µs falling). Critically, the device demonstrates a 28.6% current enhancement under simultaneous light and pressure, highlighting a strong piezo‐phototronic effect. This work presents a multifunctional fiber film for dual‐mode sensing (pressure & light), with promising applications in wearable electronics and aerospace systems. Its straightforward fabrication and high performance offer a viable pathway toward next‐generation, flexible, self‐powered sensors.

Source: Advanced Science

DOI: 10.1002/advs.202518913