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35 pages, 31723 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Bimodal Approach to Broadband Vibration Energy Harvesting Using Hybrid Piezoelectric–Electromagnetic Transduction

by Guangye Jia, Qiang Zhou and Huayang Zhao

Micromachines 2026, 17(5), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17050553 - 29 Apr 2026

Viewed by 350

Abstract

To address the issue of traditional bistable vibration energy harvesters (BVEHs) being prone to becoming trapped in a single potential well—which results in a narrowed energy harvesting bandwidth and reduced efficiency—this paper proposes a method that utilizes the nonlinear electromagnetic force generated during [...] Read more.

To address the issue of traditional bistable vibration energy harvesters (BVEHs) being prone to becoming trapped in a single potential well—which results in a narrowed energy harvesting bandwidth and reduced efficiency—this paper proposes a method that utilizes the nonlinear electromagnetic force generated during the induction process to modulate the kinematic behavior of the oscillator. The characteristics and influencing factors of the nonlinear force produced during electromagnetic induction are analyzed. A dual-cantilever beam structure is designed, with an iron-core coil and a magnet placed at the respective free ends. A mathematical model of a piezoelectric–electromagnetic coupled bimodal broadband vibration energy harvester is established and numerically simulated. Furthermore, a vertical vibration experimental platform is constructed to conduct frequency sweep tests. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed piezoelectric–electromagnetic coupled bimodal broadband vibration energy harvester effectively improves energy harvesting efficiency. Within the frequency range of 5–20 Hz, the system exhibits two vibration modes, with resonant frequencies of approximately 7.7 Hz and 15.7 Hz. For a single-layer PVDF piezoelectric film, the maximum output power at the first and second resonance points is 8.9 μW and 9.7 μW, respectively. The electromagnetic module achieves maximum output powers of 0.39 W and 0.71 W. Moreover, within the frequency ranges of 6.3–9.8 Hz and 14–17.7 Hz (a total bandwidth of 7.2 Hz), the device maintains a stable power output. The effective bandwidth is broadened by approximately 80%, demonstrating excellent broadband performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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20 pages, 2201 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Performance Optimization of a Micro Piezoelectric–Electromagnetic Hybrid Energy Harvester for Self-Powered Wireless Sensor Nodes

by Kesheng Wang, Junyan Lv, Huifeng Kang, Sufen Zhang, Qinghua Wang, Haiying Sun, Wenshuo Che and Wenqiang Yu

Micromachines 2026, 17(2), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17020225 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 823

Abstract

In low-amplitude and low-frequency vibration environments, the energy harvesting efficiency of self-powered wireless sensor nodes is insufficient, limiting their long-term autonomous operation. To address this issue, a micro piezoelectric–electromagnetic hybrid energy harvester is designed, aiming to enhance energy capture efficiency through structural integration [...] Read more.

In low-amplitude and low-frequency vibration environments, the energy harvesting efficiency of self-powered wireless sensor nodes is insufficient, limiting their long-term autonomous operation. To address this issue, a micro piezoelectric–electromagnetic hybrid energy harvester is designed, aiming to enhance energy capture efficiency through structural integration and parameter optimization. The study is conducted entirely through numerical simulations. A coaxial integrated architecture is adopted, combining a piezoelectric cantilever beam array with an electromagnetic induction module. The piezoelectric layer uses lead magnesium niobate–lead titanate (PMN-PT) solid solution material with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The electromagnetic module employs copper wire coils with a diameter of 0.08 mm, winding 1500–3000 turns, paired with N52-type neodymium–iron–boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets. To improve energy conversion efficiency, the optimization parameters include the length-to-thickness ratio of the cantilever beam, the mass of the tip mass, the number of coil turns, and the spacing of the permanent magnets. Each parameter is set at four levels for orthogonal experiments. A multi-physics coupling model is established using ANSYS Workbench 2023, covering structural dynamics, piezoelectric effects, and the electromagnetic induction module. The mesh size is set to 0.1 mm. The energy output characteristics are analyzed under vibration frequencies of 0.3–12 Hz and amplitudes of 0.2–1.0 mm. Simulation results show that the optimized hybrid harvester achieves 45% higher energy conversion efficiency than a single piezoelectric structure and 31% higher than a traditional separated hybrid structure within the 0.3–12 Hz low-frequency range. Under a 6 Hz frequency and 0.6 mm amplitude, the output power density reaches 3.5 mW/cm³, the peak open-circuit voltage is 4.1 V, and the peak short-circuit current is 1.3 mA. Under environmental conditions of 20–88% humidity and −15–65 °C temperature, the device maintains over 94% stability in energy output. After 1.2 million vibration cycles, structural integrity remains above 96%, and energy conversion efficiency decreases by no more than 5%. The proposed coaxial hybrid structure and multi-parameter orthogonal optimization method effectively enhance energy harvesting performance in low-amplitude, low-frequency environments. The simulation design parameters and analysis procedures provide a reference for the development of similar micro hybrid energy harvesters and support the performance optimization of self-powered wireless sensor nodes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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15 pages, 6829 KB

Open AccessArticle

RF Energy Harvesting–Aided IoT Network: System Design and Prototype Implementation

by Yang Wang and Hangyi Chen

Micromachines 2026, 17(1), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17010137 - 22 Jan 2026

Viewed by 685

Abstract

As more and more Internet of Things (IoT) devices are widely deployed, the issue of energy supply for these devices is becoming increasingly prominent. Considering not only the wireless information transfer (WIT) function of traditional IoT networks but also the characteristics of wireless [...] Read more.

As more and more Internet of Things (IoT) devices are widely deployed, the issue of energy supply for these devices is becoming increasingly prominent. Considering not only the wireless information transfer (WIT) function of traditional IoT networks but also the characteristics of wireless power transfer (WPT), an RF energy harvesting–aided IoT network is proposed in this paper. In the new IoT network, a WPT transmitter and a WPT receiver are, respectively, introduced to the new gateway and the new end-device. A WPT transmitter is mainly composed of an antenna selection circuit, a power amplifier, and a directional antenna. A WPT receiver consists of a directional antenna, a matching network, a rectification circuit, and an energy management circuit. In order to coordinate WPT and WIT in an orderly manner and minimize WPT’s interference on WIT, a time-division scheme is adopted. The proposed new IoT network aims to offer a new IoT scheme combining both WIT and WPT technologies. In addition, IoT devices can obtain a new energy supply through RF energy harvesting. Both the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed RF energy harvesting–aided IoT network have been validated through experimentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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13 pages, 2539 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on a Self-Powered Vibration Sensor for Coal Mine In Situ Stress Fracturing Drilling

by Jiangbin Liu, Mingzhong Li, Chuan Wu, Xianhong Shen and Yanjun Feng

Micromachines 2026, 17(1), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17010131 - 20 Jan 2026

Viewed by 527

Abstract

In the process of in situ stress fracturing drilling in coal mines, obtaining downhole vibration data not only improves drilling efficiency but also plays a key role in ensuring operational safety. Nevertheless, the energy supply techniques used in current vibration detectors reduce operational [...] Read more.

In the process of in situ stress fracturing drilling in coal mines, obtaining downhole vibration data not only improves drilling efficiency but also plays a key role in ensuring operational safety. Nevertheless, the energy supply techniques used in current vibration detectors reduce operational performance and escalate excavation expenses. This research proposes a self-powered vibration sensor based on the triboelectric nanogenerator, designed for the operational environment of coal mine in situ stress fracturing drilling. It can simultaneously detect axial and lateral vibration frequencies, and the inclusion of redundant sensing units provides the sensor with high reliability. Experimental outcomes demonstrate that the device functions across a frequency span of 0 to 11 Hz, maintaining error margins for frequency and amplitude under 4%. Furthermore, it functions reliably in environments where temperatures are under 150 °C and humidity is under 90%, proving its strong resilience to environmental factors. In addition, the device possesses self-generating potential, achieving a maximum voltage of 68 V alongside an output current of 51 nA. When connected to a 6 × 10⁷ Ω load, the maximum output power can reach 3.8 × 10⁻⁷ W. Unlike traditional subsurface oscillation detectors, the proposed unit combines self-generation capabilities with highly reliable measurement characteristics, making it more suitable for practical drilling needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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18 pages, 3925 KB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Optimization of Triangular Cantilever Beam Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters: Synergistic Design Research on Mass Block Structure Optimization and Negative Poisson’s Ratio Substrate

by Ruijie Ren, Binbin Li, Jun Liu, Yu Zhang, Gang Xu and Weijia Liu

Micromachines 2026, 17(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17010078 - 7 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1407

Abstract

The widespread adoption of low-power devices and microelectronic systems has intensified the need for efficient energy harvesting solutions. While cantilever-beam piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) are popular for their simplicity, their performance is often limited by conventional mass block designs. This study addresses this [...] Read more.

The widespread adoption of low-power devices and microelectronic systems has intensified the need for efficient energy harvesting solutions. While cantilever-beam piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) are popular for their simplicity, their performance is often limited by conventional mass block designs. This study addresses this by proposing a comprehensive structural optimization framework for a triangular cantilever PEH to significantly enhance its electromechanical conversion efficiency. The methodology involved a multi-stage approach: first, an embedded coupling design was introduced to connect the mass block and cantilever beam, improving space utilization and strain distribution. Subsequently, the mass block’s shape was optimized. Furthermore, a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) honeycomb structure was integrated into the cantilever beam substrate to induce biaxial strain in the piezoelectric layer. Finally, a variable-density mass block was implemented. The synergistic combination of all optimizations—embedded coupling, NPR substrate, and variable-density mass block—culminated in a total performance enhancement of 69.07% (17.76 V) in voltage output and a 44.34% (28.01 Hz) reduction in resonant frequency. Through experimental testing, the output performance of the prototype machine showed good consistency with the simulation results, successfully verifying the effectiveness of the structural optimization method proposed in this study. These findings conclusively show that strategic morphological reconfiguration of key components is highly effective in developing high-performance, low-frequency adaptive piezoelectric energy harvesting systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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9 pages, 1306 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Frequency- and Power-Dependent Semi-Analytical Model for Wideband RF Energy Harvesting Rectifiers

by Sadık Zuhur

Micromachines 2026, 17(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi17010030 - 26 Dec 2025

Viewed by 455

Abstract

In this study, a new semi-analytical model was developed that can calculate the output voltage of low-power microwave rectifiers as a function of frequency and input power. The model integrates diode rectification characteristics and frequency-dependent impedance mismatches within the same mathematical structure. Defined [...] Read more.

In this study, a new semi-analytical model was developed that can calculate the output voltage of low-power microwave rectifiers as a function of frequency and input power. The model integrates diode rectification characteristics and frequency-dependent impedance mismatches within the same mathematical structure. Defined by second-order polynomial expressions for input power and frequency, the model directly incorporates reflection coefficient (S₁₁) data into the equations to account for frequency-dependent power losses caused by impedance mismatch, thereby improving calculation accuracy under wide-band conditions. To validate the model, a wide-band rectifier prototype with an FR4-based T-type matching network and a voltage doubler structure was designed and manufactured. Model calculations showed over 95% agreement with simulation results and closely followed the measured output voltage trends over the 0.5–3 GHz frequency range and input power levels from −12 dBm to 0 dBm. The proposed model provides a design-oriented and computationally efficient tool for wide-band, low-power RF energy harvesting and wireless power transfer applications, enabling rapid evaluation of impedance matching strategies with reduced reliance on electromagnetic simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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14 pages, 4161 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diffusion-Plating Al₂O₃ Film for Friction and Corrosion Protection of Marine Sensors

by Yaoyao Liu, Longbo Li, Daling Wei, Kangwei Xu, Liangliang Liu, Long Li and Zhongzhen Wu

Micromachines 2025, 16(12), 1344; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16121344 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 655

Abstract

To extend the service life of sensors in seawater, this work prepared an integrated diffusion-plated Al₂O₃ film using high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS). The tribological properties of the Al₂O₃ film in a marine environment were tested using [...] Read more.

To extend the service life of sensors in seawater, this work prepared an integrated diffusion-plated Al₂O₃ film using high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS). The tribological properties of the Al₂O₃ film in a marine environment were tested using a tribometer. The morphology and evolution of the Al₂O₃ film before and after the friction tests were investigated by characterization techniques such as field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results demonstrate that the Al₂O₃ film exhibits excellent tribological performance in the marine environment, significantly enhancing the wear resistance of the substrate material. Furthermore, with the protection of the Al₂O₃ film, the designed pressure sensor achieved high-sensitivity detection of minute operational forces underwater. When applied to a robotic gripper for manipulation tasks, the coated underwater sensor enabled accurate perception of subtle motion states of the grasped objects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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15 pages, 4560 KB

Open AccessArticle

Harmonic-Recycling Passive RF Energy Harvester with Integrated Power Management

by Ruijiao Li, Yuquan Hu, Hui Li, Haiyan Jin and Dan Liao

Micromachines 2025, 16(9), 1053; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16091053 - 15 Sep 2025

Viewed by 4343

Abstract

The rapid growth of low-power Internet of Things (IoT) applications has created an urgent demand for compact, battery-free power solutions. However, most existing RF energy harvesters rely on active rectifiers, multi-phase topologies, or complex tuning networks, which increase circuit complexity and static power [...] Read more.

The rapid growth of low-power Internet of Things (IoT) applications has created an urgent demand for compact, battery-free power solutions. However, most existing RF energy harvesters rely on active rectifiers, multi-phase topologies, or complex tuning networks, which increase circuit complexity and static power overhead while struggling to maintain high efficiency under microwatt-level inputs. To address this challenge, this work proposes a harmonic-recycling, passive, RF-energy-harvesting system with integrated power management (HR-P-RFEH). The system adopts a planar microstrip architecture compatible with MEMS fabrication, integrating a dual-stage voltage multiplier rectifier (VMR) and a stub-based harmonic suppression–recycling network. The design was verified through combined electromagnetic/circuit co-simulations, PCB prototyping, and experimental measurements. Operating at 915 MHz under a 0 dBm input and a 2 k

Ω

load, the HR-P-RFEH achieves a stable 1.4 V DC output and a peak rectification efficiency of 70.7%. Compared with a conventional single-stage rectifier, it improves the output voltage by 22.5% and the efficiency by 16.4%. The rectified power is further regulated by a BQ25570-based unit to provide a stable 3.3 V supply buffered by a 47 mF supercapacitor, ensuring continuous operation under intermittent RF input. In comparison with the state of the art, the proposed fully passive, harmonic-recycling design achieves competitive efficiency without active bias or adaptive tuning while remaining MEMS- and LTCC-ready. These results highlight HR-P-RFEH as a scalable and fabrication-friendly building block for next-generation energy-autonomous IoT and MEMS systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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16 pages, 5152 KB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation-Based Design of an Electrically Tunable Beam-Steering Metasurface Driven by a Triboelectric Nanogenerator

by Penghui Luo, Longlong Zhang, Shuaixing Wang and Zhiyuan Zhu

Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080948 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1369

Abstract

This study presents a simulation-based feasibility analysis of a beam steering metasurface, theoretically driven by mechanical energy harvested from human motion via a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). In the proposed model, the TENG converts biomechanical motion into alternating current (AC), which is rectified into [...] Read more.

This study presents a simulation-based feasibility analysis of a beam steering metasurface, theoretically driven by mechanical energy harvested from human motion via a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). In the proposed model, the TENG converts biomechanical motion into alternating current (AC), which is rectified into direct current (DC) to bias varactor diodes integrated into each metasurface unit cell. These bias voltages are numerically applied to dynamically modulate the local reflection phase, enabling beam steering without external power. Full-wave electromagnetic simulations were conducted to confirm the feasibility of beam manipulation under TENG-generated voltage levels. The proposed simulation-driven design offers a promising framework for battery-free, adaptive electromagnetic control with potential applications in wearable electronics, intelligent sensing, and energy-autonomous radar systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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23 pages, 11560 KB

Open AccessArticle

An N-Shaped Beam Symmetrical Vibration Energy Harvester for Structural Health Monitoring of Aviation Pipelines

by Xutao Lu, Yingwei Qin, Zihao Jiang and Jing Li

Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080858 - 25 Jul 2025

Viewed by 909

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks provide a solution for structural health monitoring of aviation pipelines. In the installation environment of aviation pipelines, widespread vibrations can be utilized to extract energy through vibration energy harvesting technology to achieve self-powering of sensors. This study analyzed the vibration [...] Read more.

Wireless sensor networks provide a solution for structural health monitoring of aviation pipelines. In the installation environment of aviation pipelines, widespread vibrations can be utilized to extract energy through vibration energy harvesting technology to achieve self-powering of sensors. This study analyzed the vibration characteristics of aviation pipeline structures. The vibration characteristics and influencing factors of typical aviation pipeline structures were obtained through simulations and experiments. An N-shaped symmetric vibration energy harvester was designed considering the limited space in aviation pipeline structures. To improve the efficiency of electrical energy extraction from the vibration energy harvester, expand its operating frequency band, and achieve efficient vibration energy harvesting, this study first analyzed its natural frequency characteristics through theoretical analysis. Finite element simulation software was then used to analyze the effects of the external excitation acceleration direction, mass and combination of counterweights, piezoelectric sheet length, and piezoelectric material placement on the output power of the energy harvester. The structural parameters of the vibration energy harvester were optimized, and the optimal working conditions were determined. The experimental results indicate that the N-shaped symmetric vibration energy harvester designed and optimized in this study improves the efficiency of vibration energy harvesting and can be arranged in the limited space of aviation pipeline structures. It achieves efficient energy harvesting under multi-modal conditions, different excitation directions, and a wide operating frequency band, thus meeting the practical application requirement and engineering feasibility of aircraft design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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24 pages, 4771 KB

Open AccessArticle

Constant High-Voltage Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Stable AC for Sustainable Energy Harvesting

by Aso Ali Abdalmohammed Shateri, Salar K. Fatah, Fengling Zhuo, Nazifi Sani Shuaibu, Chuanrui Chen, Rui Wan and Xiaozhi Wang

Micromachines 2025, 16(7), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16070801 - 9 Jul 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2975

Abstract

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) hold significant potential for decentralized energy harvesting; however, their dependence on rotational mechanical energy often limits their ability to harness ubiquitous horizontal motion in real-world applications. Here, a single horizontal linear-to-rotational triboelectric nanogenerator (SHLR-TENG) is presented, designed to efficiently convert [...] Read more.

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) hold significant potential for decentralized energy harvesting; however, their dependence on rotational mechanical energy often limits their ability to harness ubiquitous horizontal motion in real-world applications. Here, a single horizontal linear-to-rotational triboelectric nanogenerator (SHLR-TENG) is presented, designed to efficiently convert linear motion into rotational energy using a robust gear system, enabling a high voltage and reliable full cycle of alternating current (AC). The device features a radially patterned disk with triboelectric layers composed of polyimide. The SHLR-TENG achieves a peak-to-peak voltage of 1420 V, a short-circuit current of 117 µA, and an average power output of 41.5 mW, with a surface charge density of 110 µC/m². Moreover, it demonstrates a power density per unit volume of 371.2 W·m⁻³·Hz⁻¹. The device retains 80% efficiency after 1.5 million cycles, demonstrating substantial durability under mechanical stress. These properties enable the SHLR-TENG to directly power commercial LEDs and low-power circuits without the need for energy storage. This study presents an innovative approach to sustainable energy generation by integrating horizontal motion harvesting with rotational energy conversion. The compact and scalable design of the SHLR-TENG, coupled with its resilience to humidity (20–90% RH) and temperature fluctuations (10–70 °C), positions it as a promising next-generation energy source for Internet of Things (IoT) devices and autonomous systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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37 pages, 8365 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Piezo–Electromagnetic Device Designed to Harvest the Vibrations of the Human Body

by George-Claudiu Zărnescu, Lucian Pîslaru-Dănescu and Ioan Stamatin

Micromachines 2025, 16(6), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16060675 - 31 May 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3124

Abstract

This paper focuses on hybrid piezo–electromagnetic generators, which are assembled from a magnetic repulsion pad made of two disk magnets, a sliding cylindrical magnet placed inside a tube, a coil, and an assembly of piezoelectric elements connected with the magnetic pad, as well [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on hybrid piezo–electromagnetic generators, which are assembled from a magnetic repulsion pad made of two disk magnets, a sliding cylindrical magnet placed inside a tube, a coil, and an assembly of piezoelectric elements connected with the magnetic pad, as well as an electronic system for rectification and voltage adjustment. Four piezo–electromagnetic generators have been developed. Two linear generators without magnetic cores were tested and optimized for low-frequency (0.2 Hz…5 Hz) and low-amplitude body movements. The other two generators were also designed to handle high-vibration amplitudes, to generate up to 2.2–2.5 W of power. An algorithm for the calculation and modeling of these hybrid generators is presented, as well as simulation models. In addition, an electronic hybrid voltage converter was realized. It was observed that the system harvesting efficiency was increased by adding a large capacitive buffer made of electrolytic capacitors after the Schottky diode rectifiers bridges. This capacitive buffer, together with the electronic pre-regulator, has the role of limiting the voltage to the desired input value and of being the first charging stage. Finally, in the second charging stage, an electronic converter is used to charge the supercapacitors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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Review

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25 pages, 9640 KB

Open AccessReview

Advances in the Application of Electrostatics in Agriculture: A Review from Macroscale Spray Engineering to Microscale Plant Biostimulation

by Jie Cao, Zhelin Jin, Juan He, Guizhang Ju, Letian Mi, Yang Gao, Rui Lei and Guanggui Cheng

Micromachines 2025, 16(11), 1285; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16111285 - 14 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2252

Abstract

Electrostatic technology has emerged as a crucial tool for sustainable agricultural development due to its multifunctional characteristics. However, systematic and specialized investigations into its mechanism of action and application principles across diverse agricultural scenarios remain insufficient. Here, this review innovatively constructs a spatial [...] Read more.

Electrostatic technology has emerged as a crucial tool for sustainable agricultural development due to its multifunctional characteristics. However, systematic and specialized investigations into its mechanism of action and application principles across diverse agricultural scenarios remain insufficient. Here, this review innovatively constructs a spatial scale classification framework and categorizes it into macroscale spray engineering and microscale plant biostimulation. At the macroscale, electrostatic spraying leverages charged droplets’ properties (high surface charge density, strong electrostatic interaction, enhanced adsorption) to improve canopy deposition efficiency and reduce agrochemical drift losses. At the microscale, electrostatic fields induce electron/ion directional movement, providing non-contact stimulation to regulate plant physiological processes such as seed germination and nutrient uptake. We systematically summarize the latest research progress in electrostatic spraying and electrostatic biostimulation, and further compare them in terms of their fundamental mechanisms, targets, and stages of technological development. Finally, the current limitations and challenges for each technology are overviewed and the forward perspective for the efficient application of electrostatics in agriculture are outlined. This review provides theoretical references and technical guidelines for the application research of electrostatic spraying and electrostatic biostimulation, holding significant importance for promoting the standardized development of electrostatic technology in sustainable and precision agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro-Energy Harvesting Technologies and Self-Powered Sensing Systems)

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