3D-Printed Smart Structures and Energy Devices


In the SEMI-Lab, we design and develop 3D-printed smart structures that seamlessly integrate energy devices and advanced sensing capabilities within the material architecture. Leveraging state-of-the-art additive manufacturing, we embed energy harvesting, storage, and sensing functionalities into metallic, polymer, and composite systems, enabling self-powered operation, smart sensing, and real-time structural health monitoring. Our research encompasses triboelectric nanogenerators and multifunctional embedded sensors, advancing resilient and sustainable technologies for aerospace, defense, and space applications.

Our current research directions:
  • 3D-printed smart structures with embedding sensing capabilities
  • Development of reliable and durable surface structures for nanogenerators
  • Design and development of smart and self-powered surfaces

    • Selected Publications:
    • S. Huang, J. Ren, P. Zhou, S. Rahman, K. Young, S. Mishra, J. Samuel, F. Kopsaftopoulos, S. Akin, "A multifunctional smart metal beam with sub-surface embedded sensors for real-time structural health monitoring", Structural Health Monitoring, 2025. [Link]
    • SSH. Abir, C. Smith, J. Zornitzer, J. Samuel, S. Akin, "A composite bacterial cellulose for enhanced-performance triboelectric and piezoelectric nanogenerators", Nano Energy, 2025. [Link]
    • S. Akin, et al., "One-step fabrication of functionalized electrodes on 3D-printed polymers for triboelectric nanogenerators", Nano Energy, 2024. [Link]
    • YW. Kim, S. Akin, H. Yun, S. Xu, W. Wu, MBG Jun, "Enhanced performance of triboelectric nanogenerators and sensors via cold spray particle deposition", ACS Appplied Materials & Interfaces, 2023. [Link]