Effects of nonuniform stress on the properties of lead zirconate titanate

Abstract

The variations in the piezoelectric constant, d33, and the dielectric constant, K33<th>T, for Navy type III lead zirconate titanate piezoelectric ceramic under nonuniform compressive mechanical stress have been experimentally evaluated. Peak compressive stress levels as high as 290 MPa (42 kpsi) with electric field intensities up to ±790 kVrms/m (±20 Vrms/mil) were applied to a stack of piezoelectric ceramic bars. The maximum d33 and stress-averaged K33<th>T values measured were 159% and 135% larger, respectively, than the corresponding catalog values specified at low field and without a mechanical bias. The electrical losses of the material measured under the above conditions are also reported. [Work supported by the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command.]