Harnessing Piezoelectricity for Sustainable Energy Solutions

Researchers at the University of Limerick have developed a method to grow organic crystals for energy-harvesting using piezoelectricity from amino acids. This eco-friendly approach could replace lead-based materials in electronics, reducing environmental impact. The technique involves shaping crystals with silicon molds, potentially powering devices through everyday forces. This innovation, published in Physical Review Letters, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional piezoelectric materials, with significant implications for consumer electronics and medical devices.