Design of an Open Source Piezoelectric Devices for Road Systems of Republic of Türkiye

The rapid human population and technological developments constantly increase the demand for energy resources. A significant portion of our energy needs is satisfied by fossil fuels. However, fossil fuels are rapidly depleting, and their usage processes lead to serious problems such as environmental pollution and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. CO₂ emissions accelerate global warming by increasing the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, causing the melting of glaciers, rising sea levels and disrupting the natural balance. This situation requires the development of well-designed sustainable energy sources. The main goal of our paper is to create a sustainable method for producing energy by converting the pressure exerted by vehicles on the road surface into electrical energy. For this purpose, piezoelectric panels were placed under the asphalt base during the asphalt pavement with a lightweight track feature on the far-right lane of the roads. The pressure applied as the vehicles pass enables these panels to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. The energy generated can be stored in capacitors to meet various energy demands. We believe that the proposed model will reduce carbon emissions by decreasing fossil fuel usage and minimizing environmental damage, contributing to a clean and sustainable future.