Canal-type Artificial Lateral Line Sensor Array Based on Highly Aligned P(VDF-TrFE) Nanofibers

We present a canal-type artificial lateral line (CALL) sensor array that utilizes highly aligned P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers as the primary sensing material. The design of CALL structure is inspired by the lateral line system of fish, in which highly aligned P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers are employed as the artificial neuromasts for hydraulic pressure sensing. We improved the traditional far-field electrospinning process and fabricated freestanding architectures with aligned arrangements of P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers. Both of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns show that such nanofibers have formed polar beta-phase. This highly aligned piezoelectric nanofibers offer exceptional piezoelectric response to enhance the sensitivity of the CALL sensor array. The differential output of the artificial neuromast is demonstrated.