A model for simulating polarization switching and AF-F phase changes in ferroelectric ceramics

A computational micromechanics model for polycrystalline ferroelectric cera mics developed by Chen and Lynch (1997) is modified and applied to the simu lation of ferroelectric and ferroelastic switching of the tetragonal and th e rhombohedral crystal structures, and to antiferroelectric to ferroelectri c phase changes. Interactions between different grains in the ceramic are c onsidered. Two switching criteria are used, one for ferroelectric switching and one or phase changes. Experimental results for both types of materials are simulated.