Flexoelectricity

Flexoelectricity refers to the linear coupling between a strain gradient and an electric field (direct flexoelectricity) or between an electric field gradient and strain (converse flexoelectricity). This phenomenon occurs in all dielectric materials, including crystals, polymers, biomaterials, and liquid crystals [1]. 

My research focuses on the development of electroactive materials based on the flexoelectric effect. This proposes a promising alternative to traditional lead-based piezoelectric materials which are not environmental friendly.

In particular, I work on the simulation, optimization and prototyping of flexo-electric metamaterials with apparent piezoelectricity [2]. I also work on the development of analytical models for flexoelectric beams and films [3].

References

[1] Wang, B., Gu, Y., Zhang, S., & Chen, L. Q. (2019). Flexoelectricity in solids: Progress, challenges, and perspectives. Progress in Materials Science, 106, 100570. 

[2] Greco, F., D., Codony, H., Mohammadi, S., Fernández-Méndez, I., Arias. "Topology optimization of flexoelectric metamaterials with apparent piezoelectricity". Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids 183. (2024).

[3] Mohammadi, H., Greco, F., Codony, D., & Arias, I. (2025). Flexoelectricity causes surface piezoelectric-like effects in dielectrics. ArXiv: doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2501.17626