Every day, a lot of energy goes lost to the inevitable vibrations of traffic. At these sites can piezoelectric material these vibrations converted into electrical energy, which then can be usefully used.

Pilot project
With the pilot on the provincial road N34 Tauw and the University of Twente explore in cooperation with the Province of Overijssel, the feasibility of piezo technology for civil engineering. In this pilot is a test created by the inevitable vibrations in traffic. For example bridge bearings, expansion joints and existing thresholds simulates. In September 2011, the pilot will be started and during half a year measurements will take place at the energy yield and the behavior of the material, different types of traffic and humidity. The goal is to gain practical experience to relate tot the theoretical knowledge. After the data analysis, we can be obtained more insight on how to apply this method of energy generation in the infrastructure.

In addition to this pilot, Tauw and the University run wider study into the possibilities of this kind of energy. Clever combination of functions such as playing children and road safety is one example. It is important to utilize vibration sources that are inevitable. Energy from vibrations has several advantages:
• It has a relatively long lifetime, because no mechanical gears or moving parts work.
• Piezo-electric energy production is virtually invisible. The material consists of thin layers which can be integrated in many existing structures.
• By cleverly choosing the locations, you can be made large profits by eliminating transportation and / or storage system for electricity is needed

Piezo technology can be generated in many locations. The vibration must be inevitable, and the electrical energy must be recovered. If these are met, piezoelectricity is a durable application of generating energy.