Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

Spring 5-31-2016

Degree Name

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering - (M.S.)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

First Advisor

Mesut Sahin

Second Advisor

Treena Livingston Arinzeh

Third Advisor

Max Roman

Abstract

Piezoelectric materials have been used in medical applications for a long time due to their unique characteristics, which is to respond to mechanical stimulation by producing an electrical current and vice versa. They perform a pivotal role in medical applications both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In this regard, characterizing the piezoelectric properties of these materials is crucial for their usage. In this particular study, an electromechanical system for measurement of piezoelectric output signals is designed and tested. The project is motivated by the question: can the piezoelectric properties be characterized by applying different mechanical stimulation waveforms and frequencies. Two well-known piezoelectric materials, Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) and Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT), are used as samples in this project to demonstrate the device operation. In addition, a non-piezoelectric material is included as a control group.

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