Domain structures in PbZr0.95 Ti0.05O3

Abstract

Lead zirconate titenate (Pb(Zr,Ti)O3, PZT) is a well known piezoelectric substance. Three phases have been reported in modified PbZr0.95Ti0.05O3 (PZT 95/5) bodies -- a low temperature rhombohedral ferroelectric phase (FR1), a high temperature rhombohedral ferroelectric phase (FR2) and a cubic paraelectric phase (PC). A pressure induced ferroelectric to antiferroelectric phase transformation has also been reported in modified PZT 95/5 ceramics. These phase transformations are of technological importance, as this ceramic has practical applications as a power source in which large quantities of charge are released by shock wave depolarization.Both as-fired and pressure de-poled samples of PZT 95/5 ceramics with 0.8% Nb were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Specimens for electron microscopical study were prepared from thin sections, which had been sliced by diamond saw and then mechanically polished with 600 grit SiC paper followed by diamond polishing to about 100 μm thickness. These specimens were then argon ion milled to electron transparency; a liquid N2 cooled stage was used to try and prevent the occurrence of phase transformations due to heating during ion beam thinning. Special care was also taken to minimize beam heating during electron microscopical observation.