Work

Piezoelectric Polymers for Energy Harvesting in Transport Infrastructure by Graph‐Based Network Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study investigates the integration of piezoelectric polymer technology into the transport infrastructure of the National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest campus. The research combines graph‐theoretical modeling with the implementation of piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) materials embedded within pavement structures to harvest mechanical energy generated by pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Two network scenarios are analyzed: (A) restricted access between Aula Magna and the Central Library and (B) unrestricted access. Connectivity indices (α, β, γ), generalized nodality, and nodal accessibility are used to identify critical nodes and segments with the highest traffic intensity. These locations represent optimal sites for integrating PVDF‐based piezoelectric modules capable of converting mechanical stress into electrical energy. The results demonstrate that network topology significantly influences the spatial distribution of potential energy harvesting sites, highlighting the role of smart polymer‐based materials in developing sustainable and energy‐efficient transport infrastructures.

Source: Macromolecular Symposia

DOI: 10.1002/masy.70375

Authors: Remus‐Andrei Dobrinoiu, Ionuț‐Cosmin Chiva, Augustin Semenescu, Constantin Gheorghe Opran

Institutions: Universitatea Națională de Știință și Tehnologie Politehnica București, Academia Oamenilor de Știință din România

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Energy Harvesting Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,020