Reactive calcination derived PZT ceramics

Perovskite PZT ceramics are synthesized from stoichiometric oxide ratios of Pb, Zr, and Ti. The oxide powders are mixed mechanically and calcinated, and then sintered to form the desired perovskite phase using conventional solid-state reaction and reactive calcination routes. Highly reactive powders are produced by reacting the materials near the temperature of maximum volumetric expansion. At this point, an almost single phase with relatively high homogeneous structure is obtained. Also, the highly reactive powders allow densification to occur at temperatures as low as 950 degrees C without the need to the additions of excess lead oxides. The dielectric properties of the PZT ceramics prepared by reactive calcination route are measured and compared with the conventional route.