Energy-harvesting cementitious materials for sustainable infrastructure: a critical review of piezoelectric, thermoelectric, and photovoltaic mechanisms

Key Points

• Cementitious materials can harness energy through piezoelectric, thermoelectric, and photovoltaic mechanisms, enhancing infrastructure sustainability.
• Among energy-harvesting mechanisms, piezoelectric materials can generate electrical energy when subjected to mechanical stress, optimizing construction materials.
• This critical review focuses on the current advancements in piezoelectric, thermoelectric, and photovoltaic technologies in cementitious materials.
• The outcomes suggest that integrating these mechanisms could lead to innovative solutions for energy-conserving infrastructure.