Lead-free multilayer electrostrictive actuator

The lead-free material based on BaTi0.9Zr0.1O3 solid solution (BZT) is show n to be one of the most promising for producing actuators. The study of mul tilayer BZT capacitors of 100 mu m layer thickness was investigated in a wi de temperature range and under strong electric field. In the temperature ra nge between -15 degrees C and 40 degrees C, the capacitors showed good diel ectric and electrostrictive parameters: high nonlinearity of dielectric con stant, strain stability as low as 20%, and no electromechanical hysteresis. The observed properties can be explained by coexistence of ferroelectric a nd paraelectric phases in BZT around the room temperature.