Performance enhancement of the piezoelectric ceramics by alternating current polarizing

Abstract

The piezoelectric properties of the PZT-5H ceramics under various polarization conditions are compared and analyzed. It is worth noting that compared to direct current polarization, the piezoelectric coefficient (d33), free dielectric constant (ε33T/ε0), and electromechanical coupling coefficient (kt) of the PZT-5H ceramics under alternating current polarization (ACP) have increased by 10.7%, 15.9%, and 15.4%, respectively. According to the analysis of the domain distribution patterns in the [001] surface of the PZT-5H ceramics under the two polarization conditions measured using a piezoresponse force microscope, the ACP makes the piezoelectric material have a high density of the domain wall, which greatly enhances its piezoelectric performance. This work provides an effective means to improve the piezoelectric properties of PZT-5H ceramics and will be of great significance to piezoelectric applications using this type of piezoelectric ceramic.