Microstructural Features and Electrophysical Characteristics of Ceramic–Crystal Matrix Composites

Abstract

The electrophysical properties of ceramic–crystal matrix composites are studied. Piezoelectrically active PZT/LiNbO₃ ceramic matrix composites with LiNbO₃ concentrations of 0–20 vol % are fabricated. Complex elastic, dielectric, and piezoelectric parameters are measured, and the microstructural characteristics of the obtained samples are studied experimentally. It is found that the extreme electrophysical properties of ceramic–crystal matrix composites depend on the properties and structure of the piezoceramic matrix and crystalline filler, and on the matrix microporosity produced during sintering. The electrophysical parameters of ceramic–crystal matrix composites as functions of crystalline filler content are established through the competing microporosity growth effects of the ceramic matrix and the increase in crystalline filler content.