Generation of electrical energy by the impact of water on piezoelectric plates in rainwater collection systems

Yampol Arana Gaitán F.; Paúl Alcántara Ramos J.; Vásquez Ramírez L. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2025) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2025.1.1.1119

Resumen

This research explores the generation of electrical energy from the impact of rainwater on piezoelectric plates installed in stormwater pipes. It is based on the ability of piezoelectric materials to convert mechanical energy into electricity when deformed by an external force. The study was developed through an experimental model in which variables such as flow rate and water fall height were analyzed, using PVDF sensors. It is evident that the initial impact of the water causes greater activation and deformation on the piezoelectric plate, generating higher voltage, while electricity generation decreases with repetitive impacts due to the stabilization of the material. The results showed that the generated energy is approximately 0.01 V in continuous impacts, indicating low energy generation, but with great potential. However, there are ways to optimize the system through improvements in the arrangement of sensors and the configuration of the electrical circuit. The study concludes that, although the current system has limitations, its future development could contribute to the diversification of renewable sources in urban environments. It is recommended to continue research focused on storing the energy collected by piezoelectrics and increasing the system's efficiency for practical applications.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca