The effects of sintering temperature on the properties of (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3-CaTiO3 based lead-free ceramics

Lead-free (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3 ceramics doped with 0.5 mol% CaTiO3 have been prepared by the conventional mixed-oxide method with sintering temperature at 1040-1120 degrees C in this paper. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric, piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties are also investigated. The results present that the increase of the sintering temperature is very effective in improving the density and electric properties. However, the properties of the samples would be deteriorated as they are sintered over the optimum temperature. The NKN-0.5%CT ceramics show excellent properties with sintering temperature at 1100 degrees C. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.