Highly stretchable nanocomposite piezofibers: a step forward into practical applications in biomedical devices

Fatemeh Mokhtari ¹, Hui Yin Nam ^2,3, Arjang Ruhparwar ⁴

⁰Carbon Nexus at the Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia.

Journal of Materials Chemistry. B +

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September 3, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Researchers developed flexible, self-powering piezoelectric fibers from a nanocomposite blend. These smart fibers convert movement into electricity, offering potential for advanced biomedical devices and real-time physiological monitoring.

Area Of Science

Biomaterials Science
Nanotechnology
Biomedical Engineering

Background

High-performance biocompatible composites are crucial for neural scaffolds, bio-implants, and sensors.
Current limitations include rigidity, miniaturization challenges, and short battery life.
There is a need for smart, self-powering soft devices deployable in physiological conditions.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop a straightforward fabrication technique for flexible/stretchable fiber-based piezoelectric structures.
To create a hybrid nanocomposite using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and barium-titanium oxide (BT).
To evaluate the potential of these fibers for biomechanical energy harvesting and biomedical applications.

Main Methods

Fabrication of fiber-based piezoelectric structures using a PVDF/rGO/BT nanocomposite.
Testing of various structural designs including knit, braid, woven, and coil configurations.
Evaluation of cytotoxicity and cytocompatibility using human mesenchymal stromal cells.

Main Results

Successfully created flexible/stretchable fiber-based piezoelectric structures.
Demonstrated conversion of biomechanical stimuli into electrical signals.
Achieved higher output voltage (4 V) and power density (87 μW cm⁻³) in stretchable coiled or knitted configurations.
Confirmed good cytotoxicity and cytocompatibility for biomedical applications.

Conclusions

The developed PVDF/rGO/BT nanocomposite fibers offer a promising solution for self-powering soft electronic devices.
These fibers are suitable for real-time physiological signal monitoring.
The technology holds potential for next-generation fiber-based biomedical devices, including smart scaffolds and bio-implantables.