Exploring the Potential of Electric Guitar Vibrations to Generate Energy with PVDF Piezoelectric Panels
School Name
Spring Valley High School
Grade Level
11th Grade
Presentation Topic
Physics
Presentation Type
Non-Mentored
Abstract
The increasing popularity and demand for sustainable energy opened new routes for exploring different methods of generating energy. This study assessed the utilisation of vibrating piezoelectric PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) panels on electric guitars for harvesting electrical energy. This study also investigated how different guitar chords affected the electricity output from the PVDF panels, where each chord produced a different frequency and amplitude of vibrations. The created system was made up of PVDF panels taped on an electric guitar to harness the vibrations by plucking at the strings. The energy was found in volts, amperes, and power. Out of the chords that were tested (G, D, A, F, and all strings), the G-chord had the highest electrical output and was statistically significant compared to the rest of the variables. Thus, it was possible to harvest vibrations when playing the guitar. Though the electrical output was low when compared with other sources, the findings pointed towards future applications of using stringed musical instruments as alternative energy sources. Future research might have included using more PVDF panels or using different stringed instruments.
Recommended Citation
Patwardhan, Anish, "Exploring the Potential of Electric Guitar Vibrations to Generate Energy with PVDF Piezoelectric Panels" (2025). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 104.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2025/all/104
Location
PENNY 216
Start Date
4-5-2025 11:30 AM
Presentation Format
Oral and Written
Group Project
No
Exploring the Potential of Electric Guitar Vibrations to Generate Energy with PVDF Piezoelectric Panels
PENNY 216
The increasing popularity and demand for sustainable energy opened new routes for exploring different methods of generating energy. This study assessed the utilisation of vibrating piezoelectric PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) panels on electric guitars for harvesting electrical energy. This study also investigated how different guitar chords affected the electricity output from the PVDF panels, where each chord produced a different frequency and amplitude of vibrations. The created system was made up of PVDF panels taped on an electric guitar to harness the vibrations by plucking at the strings. The energy was found in volts, amperes, and power. Out of the chords that were tested (G, D, A, F, and all strings), the G-chord had the highest electrical output and was statistically significant compared to the rest of the variables. Thus, it was possible to harvest vibrations when playing the guitar. Though the electrical output was low when compared with other sources, the findings pointed towards future applications of using stringed musical instruments as alternative energy sources. Future research might have included using more PVDF panels or using different stringed instruments.
