Softening transitions in ferroelectric Pb (Zr, Ti) o3 ceramics doped with neodymium oxide and lanthanum oxide

Abstract

The effect of La 3+ and Nd 3+ on dielectric and ferroelectric properties of Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 was studied. The powders were prepared by mixed oxide route followed by calcinations at 800 0 c for 4 h. XRD analysis of the calcined powders confirms the tetragonal phase in the undoped PZT, PLZT and PNZT ceramics were identified. SEM study of sintered pellets reveals the decrease in grain size with the change in dopant as 1at% Nd 3+ and 1at% La 3+ respectively. The dielectric properties were maximum for 1at% Nd 3+ and 1at% La 3+ respectively. Based on the above study, it is concluded that PZT doped with La 3+ and Nd 3+ produce softening