Progress on rare-earth doped ZnO-based varistor materials

Abstract

Rare-earth (RE) doping can greatly enhance the voltage gradient of ZnO-based varistors, and their nonlinear coefficient, leakage current, energy absorption capability, through-current capability and residual voltage can also be improved to certain extent. In this review, the progress on RE-doped ZnO-based varistor materials in recent years was summarized. The mechanism of RE doping on the electrical performance of ZnO varistors was analyzed. The issues in exploring new ZnO-based varistor materials by RE doping were indicated, and the development trends in this area were proposed.