A two-stage solid-state reaction to lead zirconate titanate powders

Abstract

An approach to synthesize lead zirconate titanate (PZT) powders with a modified two-stage mixed oxide synthetic route has been developed. To ensure a single-phase perovskite formation, an intermediate phase of lead zirconate (PbZrO3) was employed as starting precursor. The formation of perovskite phase in the calcined powders has been investigated as a function of calcination temperature. It has been found that the perovskite PbZrO3and PbTiO3phases tend to form together with PZT, with the latter appearing in both tetragonal and rhombohedral phases, depending on calcination temperatures. It is seen that optimization of calcination can lead to 100% yield of PZT phase.