Piezoelectric Materials for Controlling Electro-Chemical Processes

Piezoelectric materials have been analyzed for over 100 years,due to their ability to convert mechanical vibrations into electric charge or electric fields into a mechanical strain for sensor,energy harvesting,and actuator applications.A more recent development is the coupling of piezoelectricity and electro-chemistry,termed piezo-electro-chemistry,whereby the piezoelectrically induced electric charge or voltage under a mechanical stress can influence electro-chemical reactions.There is growing interest in such coupled systems,with a corresponding growth in the number of associated publications and patents.This review focuses on recent development of the piezo-electro-chemical coupling multiple systems based on various piezoelectric materials.It provides an overview of the basic characteristics of piezoelectric materials and comparison of operating conditions and their overall electro-chemical performance.The reported piezo-electro-chemical mechanisms are examined in detail.Comparisons are made between the ranges of material morphologies employed,and typical operating conditions are discussed.In addition,potential future directions and applications for the development of piezo-electro-chemical hybrid systems are described.This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent studies on how piezoelectric materials and devices have been applied to control electro-chemical processes,with an aim to inspire and direct future efforts in this emerging research field.