Influence of the preparation on the microstructure and ferroelectricity of the (SBN)_1−x(BTN)_x ceramics

Abstract

Ceramics of compositions within the solid solution system (SrBi₂Nb₂O₉)4/19/06_1−x(Bi₃TiNbO₉)_x have been obtained for 0≤ × ≤1. Two preparation methods for the ceramic precursor powder were tested: a) thermal treatment of the oxides and carbonates mixture until synthesis of the composition and b) mechanochemical activation by milling of the oxides and carbonates mixture until amorphization.

Both precursor powders are isostatically pressed to get the pellets for sintering in air. Sintered ceramics from amorphous powder show the higher density (96–98% of theoretical density) and lower size grain than those from synthesized powder (densification of 93–94%).

Ferro-piezoelectric characterization shows the expected variation of the Curie temperature as a function of the composition and better ferro-piezoelectric response of sintered ceramics from amorphous powder are obtained.

Keywords:

• Aurivillius
• Ferroelectric
• Ceramics
• Preparation