Piezoelectricity in Healthcare
Written by Aanya Deshpande
Piezoelectricity is the process of using certain solid materials, such as crystals, ceramics, and bones, to create electricity. A regular crystal has a unit cell that is a repeating structure of atoms that are held together by bonds. If mechanical pressure is applied to a piezoelectric crystal, its atoms and structure will deform, which causes the crystal to produce an electric current. However, if an electric current is used on the same crystal, the crystal will expand and contract, which turns electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Piezoelectric materials can be utilized for many industrial products for healthcare. Firstly, piezoelectric crystals can be used in ultrasound imaging. The crystals stored in ultrasound probes convert electric signals into high-frequency waves that travel through the body. These waves reflect off of organs and tissues to create high-quality medical imaging for an ultrasound.
Secondly, piezoelectric medical devices can be employed for drug delivery systems. The piezoelectricity can convert electric signals into mechanical pressure. The motion can control the rate at which drugs are delivered and accurately deliver them. Recently, researchers have developed piezoelectric pumps for drug delivery systems. The design of these pumps makes them very reliable, small, and easy to use. The pumps also exhibited high accuracy when dosing.
Finally, piezoelectric sensors are used in medical devices to monitor vitals and measure blood flow. These sensors can aid in early disease detection and quick treatment. The sensors can also be worn or implanted into the body.
Overall, piezoelectricity in medicine and healthcare has shown many benefits. Piezoelectricity can be used in devices for ultrasound imaging, drug delivery systems, and monitoring sensors. In the future, piezoelectricity can be used a lot more to shape the future of advanced healthcare.
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Written by Aanya Deshpande from MEDILOQUY