Piezoelectric crystals are fascinating – when physical stress is applied, these materials produce a voltage. The effect can be reversed as well, apply electricity, produce a stress/vibration. Rochelle salt(potassium sodium tartrate) is an easily synthesized piezoelectric substance you can make with readily available items –
- 500 g (1 lb) of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)[NaHCO3]
- 200 g (7 oz) of cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate)[KHC4H4O6] [see note below]
- Oven
- Pyrex container
- Jar with lid
- 500 mL (2 cup) glass beaker or Pyrex measuring cup
- Sauce pan with water
- 2 mL (1/2 tsp) measuring spoon
- Spoon for stirring
- Coffee Filter
- Filter paper or paper towelling
This could be a great way to get started making your own custom guitar pickups, contact mics, etc. Either way, tapping on a crystal you’ve grown and watching it produce 26 volts is pretty darn cool!
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