Ferroelectric nanocomposites from potassium dihydrogen phosphate with oxidised multi-walled carbon nanotubes: preparation, composition effects, structure, ferroelectricity and electrical properties

ABSTRACT

A novel ferroelectric nanocomposite based on potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) combined with the oxidised form of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (OMWCNT) was prepared and utilised for investigating the influence of OMWCNT on structure, phase transition, ferroelectric switching and electrical properties. The results pointed out the expansion of the ferroelectric phase and the increase in dielectric constant in comparison with pure KDP. Besides, a weaker ferroelectric switching accompanied by the deformation of hysteresis loops has been found with a higher OMWCNT content. Finally, the impedance and conductivity measurements demonstrated the electrode effects. The interaction of KDP with OMWCNT, and the high electrical conductivity of OMWCNT were supposed to be related to the described anomalies.

KEYWORDS:

• KDP
• multiwalled carbon nanotubes
• phase transition
• ferroelectric switching
• impedance

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.