Toray Industries, Inc. has developed an advanced piezoelectric polymer capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 200°C, marking a significant step forward in high-performance sensing materials.
Offering excellent design flexibility and compatibility with large-area mounting, the new material is positioned to strengthen vibration detection and monitoring technologies across mobility, robotics, industrial machinery, and aerospace applications.
Piezoelectric materials generate electrical voltage in response to external stimuli such as stress and vibration, making them essential for devices including microphones and strain sensors. However, conventional materials present notable limitations. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) loses its polarization structure at approximately 120°C, restricting practical operating temperatures to around 80°C. Lead zirconate titanate (PZT), while highly piezoelectric, is rigid and brittle, limiting its adaptability to complex geometries and large surface areas.
Demand for advanced vibration sensing solutions is rapidly growing. Automotive manufacturers are exploring active noise cancellation systems to reduce road noise. Robotics developers are integrating vibration detection for enhanced haptic feedback. Industrial machinery and aerospace sectors require continuous vibration monitoring to detect early-stage anomalies and ensure operational reliability. These applications increasingly call for sensors capable of covering broad surface areas and operating reliably in high-temperature environments—such as near motors and engines, within space systems, or along heat-transfer piping—often exceeding 100°C.
Leveraging its expertise in polymer molecular design and higher-order structural control, Toray has engineered a material that maintains its polarization structure even at temperatures above 200°C, enabling stable and reliable signal detection under demanding conditions. The polymer is available in multiple formats, including varnish, film, and nonwoven fabric, offering versatility for diverse design requirements. Importantly, the material is free from lead and fluorine, and complies with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) regulations, supporting global sustainability and regulatory standards.