Exploring Wood as a Natural Piezoelectric Material: A Review of Historical Development, Mechanisms, and Applications

Abstract

Wood is a sustainable material that exhibits natural piezoelectric behavior due to its anisotropic properties arising from its crystalline cellulose structure. Since the mid-20th century, scientific interest in the piezoelectric properties of wood has expanded from fundamental research on crystal mechanics to applications in energy harvesting, sensing systems, and smart materials. This review addresses the body of research conducted on the piezoelectric behavior of wood, examining the fundamental mechanisms and current potential applications from a holistic perspective. By comparatively analyzing historical and contemporary studies, significant insights are provided into the relationship between the piezoelectric properties of wood and its structural characteristics. The study concludes with guiding recommendations for future research and potential applications in environmentally friendly and energy-efficient technologies.