Structural and functional properties of (1 − x)PLZT–xPBLBiN nanoceramic composites by high-energy mechanical activation technique

The dielectric and piezoelectric properties of (1 − x)[(Pb_0.988La_0.012)(Zr_0.53Ti_0.47)_0.997O₃]–x[Pb_0.557Ba_0.38La_0.022Bi_0.02Nb₂O₆] composite system consisting of both perovskite tetragonal (4 mm) and tungsten bronze orthorhombic (m2 m) phases, prepared in situ by mechanical activation method are presented and discussed in relation to x (PBLBiN) variation. The crystal structure and morphology of the composites were examined with X-ray diffraction and scanning and transmission electron microscopes. Scanning electron micrographs showed structural homogeneity. Dielectric and piezoelectric properties were studied as a function of x to characterize electrical properties of composites. The presence of two trivalent ions (La³⁺ and Bi³⁺) in x resulted in high dielectric and piezoelectric properties. The possible mechanisms of mechanical activation technique of (1 − x)PLZT–xPBLBiN nanoceramic composite system are discussed. The optimum dielectric and piezoelectric properties were found in x = 0.6 in (1 − x)PLZT–xPBLBiN nanoceramic composite system which could be ideal for electromechanical and energy harvesting applications.