LOW-TEMPERATURE SINTERING AND INFLUENCE OF THE PROCESS ON THE DIELECTRIC-PROPERTIES OF BA(ZN1 3TA2/3)O-3/

By controlling the granulometric distribution of the powders, a densit y of >96% of the theoretical density has been attained for Ba(Zn1/3Ta2 /3)O-3 that has been sintered at a low temperature (1450 degrees C) fo r a short soaking time (2 h). Attrition milling produces a very fine a nd monomodal powder that allows for good densification. The attrition conditions result from a compromise between granulometric distribution and the risk of pollution. We have found a great influence of the ori gin of the raw materials on the temperature coefficient of frequency, allowing a modulation in the range of 0-15 ppm/degrees C. Finally, we have studied the influence of each step of the process on the dielectr ic properties and identified the secondary phases that form with the e vaporation of zinc: an eight-layered hexagonal perovskite and a tetrag onal tungsten-bronze-type phase.