Microstuctural study and properties of 0.8PZT-0.2BT ceramics using a two-stage sintering procedure

Abstract

Lead zirconate titanate-barium titanate (0.8PZT-0.2BT) ceramic was prepared by conventional mixed-oxide method combined with a two-stage sintering procedure. A sintering time of 2 h at 1000 °C followed by a second step in the temperature range of 1000-1200 °C for 2 h was employed to the samples and compared to the one-step sintering process. Phase formation, densification and microstructure of all ceramics were examined via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Archimedes method and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results lead to the conclusion that the pure perovskite phase and high densification of 0.8PZT-0.2BT ceramics with small grain can be successfully achieved under suitable two-stage sintering conditions. © 2008 Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.