Phase transition in Bi-modified PLZT ferroelectrics

Polycrystalline complex samples of Bi-modified PLZT ferroelectrics with Zr/Ti ratio= 53:47 (i.e. Pb-0.9 (La1-z/ Bi-3(z))(0.1)(Zr0.53Ti0.47)(1-z/4)O-3) were synthesised by a low-cost chemical route called the Pechini method. Preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of fine and homogeneous powders prepared at relatively low temperature (i.e. 800 degreesC) show that the complex compounds or solid solutions of the above materials can be formed in a single phase tetragonal crystal system. Detailed studies of dielectric and electric properties of the materials show a diffuse phase transition in them. By increasing the content of Bi ions at the La site, transition temperature increases and decreases the dielectric constant of the materials. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.