Piezoceramics - For the Mobility of Tomorrow
Piezoceramics have become indispensable in modern vehicles. CeramTec develops piezo ceramic materials and components that work precisely even under extreme conditions. Our solutions combine high measurement accuracy, fast response times, and exceptional robustness. They not only support established automotive systems, but also significantly advance new vehicle concepts, sustainable mobility, and autonomous driving.
Whether level sensors, knock detection, parking distance control, or high-precision ultrasonic measurements - piezoceramic components are now central elements of modern vehicle systems. As a material that converts mechanical energy into electrical signals, piezoceramics make a decisive contribution to safety-related, efficiency-enhancing, and comfort-oriented vehicle functions. At the same time, it forms the basis for numerous future technologies – from energy-autonomous sensor systems and adaptive haptic surfaces to ultrasonic sensor cleaning and self-monitoring vehicle structures.
Automotive Application Examples at a Glance
Level Sensors (Oil & Fuel) Wheel Balancer Knock SensorsParking Distance Control
Potential Development Projects:
Energy HarvestingAdaptive Vehicle InteriorUltrasound-based Autonomous Sensor CleaningSmart Materials
Technological Expertise
Piezoceramics are high-performance materials that use the piezoelectric effect to convert mechanical forces, vibrations, or pressure changes directly into electrical signals - and vice versa. CeramTec combines technological advantages with decades of materials expertise, automotive experience, and high-precision manufacturing. Our piezoceramic components deliver reproducible measurement results and excellent robustness. Lead-free versions (BNT-BT) are also available upon request.
In fill level sensors, the piezo ceramic acts as a transmitter and receiver of ultrasonic waves. It first generates a high-frequency pulse (1–3 MHz) that travels through the liquid and is reflected at its surface. The reflected wave returns to the sensor, which generates an electrical signal from it.
The transit time measurement provides a precise reading of the current fill level – completely wear-free and suitable for on-board diagnostics. This technology replaces traditional dipsticks with a digital, modern solution.
Knock Sensors
The piezoceramic ring in the knock sensor detects engine vibrations in the relevant frequency range. During knocking combustion, the seismic mass generates a characteristic force on the ceramic, which produces a clear electrical signal.
The engine control unit can then immediately adjust the ignition map, protect the engine, and reduce fuel consumption.
Future Technologies based on Piezoceramic Materials
Innovative concepts – developed together
Piezoelectric ceramic components enable numerous new functional approaches in vehicles – from energy-autonomous sensor systems to intelligent surfaces and structural condition monitoring. The following examples illustrate potential applications and serve as inspiration for possible development projects. Depending on the customer project, these topics may already be implemented or open up new innovation potential.
CeramTec supports customers throughout the entire development process:
From selecting suitable material systems and adapting geometry, actuator, or sensor properties to integration into assemblies and validation under real automotive conditions. This collaborative partnership results in customized solutions that are both technically and economically compelling.
Whether in concrete product development or the early concept phase – we see ourselves as a development partner on equal footing with our customers.
The basic steps are:
- Mechanical excitation: Irregularities in the road, cornering, tire deformation, or general sources of vibration generate a periodic force.
- Piezoelectric conversion: The piezoceramic layer deforms slightly under this load and generates an electrical voltage.
- Electrical utilization: The energy generated is buffered in a capacitor or micro energy storage device and can supply microsensors.
Technical Advantages
- Energy yield even with very low vibration (high sensitivity)
- Reliable under extreme temperatures, humidity, and stress
- Ideal for sensor technology in rotating systems (e.g., tires)
- No battery → no maintenance → no failures due to discharge
- Compatible with low-power electronics and wireless sensors (BLE, UHF, NFC)
Adaptive Vehicle Interior
Functional principle
The inverse piezoelectric effect is used here:When electrical voltage is applied to a piezoceramic actuator, it changes its geometry minimally – quickly and precisely, depending on the frequency. This allows controlled vibrations or click pulses to be generated.
Technical details
- Piezo actuators offer extremely short response times (<1 ms).
- High frequency ranges (ultrasonic capability), but also low-frequency haptic signals are possible.
- High force development with minimal deformation → ideal for thin or hidden installation locations.
- Actuators can be integrated into complex, curved surfaces (dashboard, touch surfaces, center console).
Ultrasound-based Autonomous Sensor Cleaning
Functional principle
Piezo ultrasonic transducers generate precise, high-frequency vibrations (typically 20 kHz – 80 kHz). These vibrations generate:
- Microvibrations on the surface (e.g., camera cover), and
- Pressure fluctuations in the water or air film in front of the sensor.
These micro-effects reliably remove dirt particles, dust, water droplets, or ice from the sensor surface—without mechanical wipers or moving parts.
Technically relevant are:
- High frequency stability for optimum cleaning effect
- Very thin design of the piezoceramic elements
- Integration into glass, plastic, or metal possible
- Possibility of continuous monitoring (low power consumption in standby mode)
Smart Materials
Functional principle
Piezo sensors are integrated into structural elements as embedded functional layers. They serve simultaneously as:
- Sensor: detects strain, cracks, structural changes
- Actuator: can emit targeted pulses to monitor the structure (e.g., pulse echo method)
This creates a so-called "structural health monitoring system" (SHM).
Technical mechanisms
- Lamb wave analysis: Ultrasonic pulses travel through the component and are reflected by defects – the piezoceramic sensors receive these signals.
- Vibration analysis: Changes in natural frequencies indicate material fatigue.
- Quasi-static strain measurement: Piezo elements react to forces and strains.
