The effect of isostructural seeding on the microstructure and piezoelectric properties of PZT ceramics

Pechini's method was used to prepare lead titanate zirconate with Zr/Ti rat io equal to 53/47. X-ray diffraction data revealed the presence of a rhombo hedral phase, rich in zirconium, due to difference in carbonate stabilities , in PZT ceramics calcined at 600 degrees C. Infrared spectroscopy presente d COO- bonds in the 1400 cm(-1) region, which disappeared after calcining a t 700 degrees C. Seeds with rhombohedral (PZT 57/43) or tetragonal structur e (PZT 45/55) were added to the precursor. The microstructure was different ially influenced by the nature of seed particles. Rhombohedral nuclei promo ted preferential crystallization of lead zirconate. This heterogeneity dire ctly reflected on values of k(p) and d(33). (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Limit ed and Techna S.r.l. All rights reserved.