Field-induced phase transitions in electroceramics with the advantages
of targe strain and shape memory are investigated as a mechanism for
structural actuation. Several lanthanum and niobium doped lead zircona
te stannate titanate compositions were manufactured and studied The de
pendence of the material response on various factors relevant to struc
tural actuation has been examined. Factors such as induced stress, act
uation frequency, and temperature play an important role in the respon
se of the material. A prototype adaptive structure using shape memory
ceramic active materials has been constructed, tested, and used to val
idate model predictions.