PZT-BASED PIEZOELECTRIC CERAMICS WITH COMPLEX STRUCTURES

In order to achieve enhanced mechanical properties combined with superior piezoelectric performance in PZT ceramics, a new concept of materials design has been proposed, in which a secondary phase with columnar structure is introduced to form complex structures and to enhance the mechanical properties of PZT ceramics. In the PZT-Bi4Ti3O12 system, a columnar grains dispersed complex structure has been attained by sintering PZT-Bi4Ti3O12 powder compacts at the temperatures ranged from 1100 to 1150 degrees C, where the excellent electric properties could be maintained if the concentration of Bi4Ti3O12 is no more than 3 mol%.