"Nanogenerators based on electrospun cellulose and PVDF nanofibers with graphene derivatives."

• Grant number: 24/20927-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics
• Principal Investigator: Deuber Lincon da Silva Agostini
• Grantee: Vitor Hugo Uzeloto Fernandes Mingroni
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 14/50869-6 - INCT 2014: on Organic Electronics, AP.TEM

Abstract

The development of nanostructured devices is promising but requires further investigation, involving adjustments ranging from the selection, synthesis, and processing of the materials involved to the final design of the device. These steps are essential to ensure high performance and reliability for evaluation across a wide range of applications. In this context, this project aims to use cellulose derivatives, such as cellulose nanocrystals, and carbon allotropes, including plasma-induced graphene (Graf) or reduced graphene oxide (rGO), synthesized by the project's partners, along with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and cellulose acetate (CA). These materials will be processed into nanofibers using the electrospinning technique. The choice of materials and processing methods was made based on a literature review that highlighted the synergy among these components, aiming for greater energy efficiency when used as components in nanogenerators (NGs), both in piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). To achieve this, the project proposes: i) Testing the solubilization/dispersion parameters of the materials involved; ii) Investigating various electrospinning parameters for nanofiber production; iii) Utilizing characterization methods to analyze the behavior of the materials and propose improvements in the production and architecture of the composite and the final device. The materials and the device to be developed will be characterized based on the following properties: i) Morphological properties, through profilometry, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM); ii) Structural properties, through Raman spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), complemented by piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM); iii) Thermal properties, through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); iv) Electrical properties, by measuring the direct current (DC) electrical response in the d33 direction.