Method for the Measurement of the Pyroelectric Coefficient, dc Dielectric Constant, and Volume Resistivity of a Polar Material

Abstract

A method is described for measuring the pyroelectric coefficient, dc dielectric constant, and volume resistivity of a polar material over a broad temperature range. The technique is based on the observation of the capacitive charging of a pyroelectric sample by the pyroelectric current generated during a continuous temperature change. This method has the advantages of requiring neither a heat flux measurement nor the attaining of isothermal conditions and does not alter the domain structure of a ferroelectric material. Values of the above properties were measured for Clevite PZT-5 (lead-zirconate-titanate ceramic) over the temperature range from −200 to 200°C. The pyroelectric coefficient of Clevite PZT-4 (lead-zirconate-titanate ceramic) was measured by a simplified method over the temperature range of 25 to 75°C.