BaTiO3-Based Piezoelectric Materials

Abstract

In this chapter, we present a comprehensive review of barium titanate (BaTiO3,BT)-based piezoelectric materials, mainly consisting of the design of new material systems, the construction of phase boundaries, the origin of high piezoelectricity, and the exploration of low-temperature sintering technique. Firstly, effects of synthesis methods, microstructure and sintering aids on piezoelectricity are discussed. Thereafter, we introduce the approaches to modulate electrical properties of BaTiO3 by focusing on phase boundary construction and oxides additives, the typical candidate materials including (Ba,Ca)(Zr,Ti)O3, (Ba,Ca)(Sn,Ti)O3 and (Ba,Ca)(Hf,Ti)O3. In addition, we summarize the recent advances of (1 − x)Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3–x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 thin films from the views of piezoelectric, ferroelectric and dielectric properties. Particularly, the electrocaloric effects of BaTiO3-based materials are also reviewed with theory, property modification, and typical material systems. Finally, the related physical origin for high piezoelectricity is addressed by focusing on the role of intermediate phase in phase boundary and domain structure.