Electrohydrodynamic Jet Morphology Modulation for Highly Spatially Controllable Piezoelectric Nanowire Deposition

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Piezoelectric nanowires possess remarkable mechanical flexibility and strength as well as the ability to respond to slight vibrations or disturbances across a wide range of frequencies. However, conventional fabrication methods based on lithography or chemicals are complex, time-consuming, and costly. This paper presents an electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) modulating method for fabricating highly aligned, ultralong piezoelectric nanowires in a highly efficient and controllable way, utilizing poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as the modulating agent. The study systematically investigates the mechanism of the jet morphology transition and proposes an approach to initiating the ejection at a lower working voltage, enabling high-resolution printing without reducing the nozzle size. The combination of morphology modulation of jet with lower working voltage enables successful fabrication of superfine lead zirconate titanate (PZT) nanowires with a size of about 35 nm, individually controllable in orientation and position, and various complex patterns. Additionally, applications of the proposed method were demonstrated in the field of 3D surface nanoprinting and the preparation of piezoelectric sensors and nanoelectrodes. These results represent a significant breakthrough in E-jet printing technology, which provides high resolution and spatial controllability utilizing conventional micronozzle technology for nanodevice fabrication.