Piezoelectric thin films on polyimide substrates for flexible piezoelectric devices

Flexible 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm PZT thin films on polyimide substrate were successfully obtained through a release and transfer process developed in this work. The released films not only functioned, but had superior properties compared to films grown on silicon wafers. This approach to flexible piezoelectric devices provides opportunities for sensors, transducers, and energy harvesters.