Superior Piezoelectric Elastomer Based on Dynamic Forced Vulcanization for Tire Condition Monitoring

Benefiting from advanced stretchability, durability, and flexibility, piezoelectric polymers have gained significant attention in multiple applications including sensing, energy harvesting, and wearable devices. However, their application in smart tires remains relatively underexplored due to the limited elasticity of most piezoelectric polymers. In this work, we developed a superior piezoelectric elastomer using a dynamic forced vulcanization (DFV) technique to harness energy for automotive tire sensors. Natural rubber/barium titanate (NR/BTO) composites prepared from this innovative approach exhibited remarkable piezoelectric properties, enhanced mechanical strength, and impressive durability. Comprehensive testing was conducted on the samples produced via DFV, focusing on vulcanization characteristics, thermal stability, and thermo-mechanical properties, which indicated notable advancements in the evolution of the cross-linked structure and its performance under cyclic pulsating forces. As expected, the optimal sample obtained through DFV shown a high piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 14.8 pC/N, a consistent voltage output of 20.1 V, and a sensitivity of 310.3 mV/N due to the preferred orientation of crystal planes. Consequently, the NR/BTO composites generating stable, sufficient, and renewable voltage can be utilized at powering sensors of vehicles with different weights and velocities. This work shows the potential of piezoelectric elastomers in energy harvesting applications within the automotive sector, paving the way for innovative developments in smart tire technology and enhancing the functionality of vehicular systems.