Nonlocal strain gradient modeling of vibration energy harvesting in fluid-immersed bimorph sandwich nanoplates under thermal environment

Abstract

This research details a method for mathematically simulating and assessing thermal vibration energy harvesting in laminated bimorph nanoplates in fluid contact. The model uses the piezoelectric characteristics of the outer layers and the functionally graded (FG) core material to transform thermal stresses into electrical energy efficiently. Nanostructures' size effects and nonclassical behavior are captured by the nonlocal strain gradient theory (NSGT). Combining the Navier-Stokes equations with the electromechanical equations obtained from Hamilton's principle, first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT), and Gauss's law yields an advanced multi-physics model. The FG core exhibits variations by the power law principle and is composed of both ceramic and metal components. Analytical solutions are obtained for the frequency response functions that relate the electrical power output to the external circuit load resistance by solving the coupled electromechanical-fluid equations. A thorough investigation is conducted to analyze how different elements impact energy harvesting performance using parametric studies. These factors include the configuration of the harvester (either parallel or series piezoelectric connections), nonlocal and strain gradient effects, temperature gradients, fluid depth, electrical load, geometric dimensions, and the material properties of the piezoelectric layers, and functionally graded core.