Piezoelectric 3–3 composites

Abstract

Abstract Piezoelectric composites of PZT and polymers were prepared by mixing tiny plastic spheres with PZT powder in an organic binder and firing the mixture to give a ceramic skeleton. After cooling, the skeleton was back-filled with polymer and poled. Dielectric and piezoelectric properties were measured on samples ranging from 30 to 70 volume % PZT, and compared with a rectangular skeleton model for 3–3 composites. Composites containing 50% PZT-50% silicone rubber appear especially useful for hydrophone applications with dhgh products a hundred times larger than PZT.