Unlocking enhanced piezoelectric performance through 3D printing of particle-free ceramic piezoelectric complex structures and metamaterials

Piezoelectric materials have found widespread use in miniaturized sensors and actuators due to their ability of mutual conversion of mechanical and electric energy. However, current fabrication techniques for these materials are limited to either bulky structures or thin films, restricting the potential that could arise from developing devices with more intricate geometries. Here, we have developed particle-free piezoelectric ink and successfully employed in 3D printing complex barium titanate (BTO) devices using Digital Light Processing technology. The sol–gel process overcomes the viscosity and light scattering issues associated with the slurry traditionally used in 3D printing of piezoelectric ceramic materials. Printed BTO exhibits a remarkable piezoelectric coefficient of 50 pm/V and is utilized to create 3D micrometric structures for applications as both active devices, such as actuators, and passive devices, including displacement sensors and energy harvesters. Furthermore, the flexibility in device fabrication enabled us to 3D print metamaterial piezoelectric structures, designed to concentrate mechanical stress, thereby enhancing the electrical response compared to conventional bulk structures. This research not only advances the field by overcoming fabrication challenges but also opens avenues for creating innovative devices. The design freedom afforded by additive manufacturing technology further underscores the potential for groundbreaking developments in this domain.