Stress induced potential barriers in composite piezoelectric semiconductor fibers in extension

Abstract We study the extension of composite fibers with piezoelectric dielectric layers and nonpiezoelectric semiconductor layers. A theoretical analysis is performed using the one-dimensional macroscopic model of piezoelectric semiconductor fibers. An analytical solution is obtained for a fiber with a uniform nonpiezoelectric semiconductor layer and piecewise uniform piezoelectric dielectric layers. Numerical results show that an electric potential barrier forms near the junction between the piecewise uniform piezoelectric layers. The potential barrier depends on the extensional stress. It may be used to manipulate the electrical behaviors such as the conduction in the fiber mechanically and thus has potential applications in piezotronics.