1-3 castor oil-based polyurethane/PZT piezoelectric composite as a possible candidate for structural health monitoring

In this study, we obtained and characterized a piezoelectric composite with 1-3 connectivity from castor oil polyurethane (PUR) and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) rods. Two samples were obtained, one with 15% PZT volume and the other with 34% PZT volume. The ac electrical properties of the 1-3 piezoelectric composite samples demonstrated the frequency-dependence behavior of disordered solids. The piezoelectric coefficient (d33) was greatly influenced by the number of PZT rods and the matrix curing process. The sample with 34% PZT volume showed a higher d33value, (246 pC/N measured after 30 d of polarization). The composites were evaluated for use in acoustic emission wave sensors for application in structural health monitoring.