Mechanism
In semiconductors, changes in inter-atomic spacing resulting from strain affects the bandgaps making it easier (or harder depending on the material and strain) for electrons to be raised into the conduction band. This results in a change in resistivity of the semiconductor. Piezoresistivity is defined by
Where
- ∂ρ = Change in resistivity
- ρ = Original resistivity
- ε = Strains
Piezoresistivity has a much greater effect on resistance than a simple change in geometry and so a semiconductor can be used to create a much more sensitive strain gauge, though they are generally also more sensitive to environmental conditions (esp. temperature).
Read more about this topic: Piezoresistive Effect
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