Towards optomechanical energy harvesters based on photo-mobile polymers operating under continuous sunlight radiation

Photo-actuators coupled with mechanical energy harvesting systems feature a promising approach to solar energy conversion in the broad field of innovative energy harvesting technologies. In this study, we present a novel device capable of generating a 0.2 V peak-to-peak signal by sustaining the continuous oscillation of photomobile polymer (PMP) films in the range of 5-8 Hz when exposed to continuous steady illumination by effectively transferring mechanical motion to a piezoelectric transducer (PZL). An optomechanical energy-harvesting prototype based on PMPs was fabricated and experimentally characterized utilizing Xenon arc-lamp that closely mimics natural sunlight electromagnetic radiation. The analyzed harvesting system exhibits a distinctive dual-stage energy conversion process, from light to mechanical and subsequently from mechanical to electrical energy, highlighting its potential for diverse applications in next-generation solar energy systems.