Bi4Ti3O12 electroceramics: effect of doping, crystal structure mechanisms and piezoelectric response

Bi4Ti3O12 (BTO) is a typical example of single-phase piezoelectric materials and has potential applications in electromechanical devices. At room temperature, these Aurivillius phase materials reveal the piezoelectric coefficient (d(33)) as 20 pm/V. The layered type BTO exhibits a monoclinic structure at room temperature. Beyond the room temperature, it discloses orthorhombic and tetragonal nature. In this review, recent developments on piezoelectric measurements of BTO doped with other elements have been summarized. It is found that rare-earth-based, lead-free BTO compositions show enhanced piezoelectric behaviour than pure BTO systems. Special attention is put on the fabrication and crystal structure of BTO ceramics and the effect of doping on the piezoelectric properties. This topic is of current interest to ceramic researchers worldwide, as proved by the enormous number of research reports. It has encouraged me to develop a critical overview of this subject. This article will navigate to the young researchers to advance the piezoelectric properties of the non-lead based BTO Aurivillius phase compounds to accomplish materials at par with the lead-based toxic materials.