An Introduction to Piezoelectric and Thermoelectric Materials

• Materials may demonstrate electromagnetism and thermomechanics coupling. Although we benefit from this coupling in our modern lives, comprehending this coupling is challenging. We intuitively understand that temperature increase causes an expansion in polymers and alloys. Typical example is a plastic water bottle left in the sun, the expansion is visible by naked eyes. Yet it is more abstract to consider that an electric field may create a deformation or even a temperature change. Electromagnetic fields are more abstract since our senses fail to be sensitive to these physical quantities. There are indeed materials with so-called piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties and we use them for sensors and actuators. More confusingly, there is a thermoelectric effect relating electric current and heat flux. In order to set the ideas correctly, we explain these phenomena and introduce to the abstract world of electromagnetism and thermomechanics coupling. Furthermore, we provide an inside look to realize how different types of thermal and electric coupling phenomena work and how to model such materials adequately.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Teknisk mekanik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Applied Mechanics (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Energy methods

Piezoelectric

Pyroelectric

Thermoelectric

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