Domain configuration and domain switching in Dy-doped 0.72PMN-0.28PT Piezoceramics with high d33 coefficient

The PMN-28PT-xDy (x = 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4%) piezoelectric ceramics were prepared by the two-step sintering method. A high piezoelectric coefficient d(33) -1270 pC/N is achieved when x = 3%. As the Dy doping content increases, the domain configuration transforms from ordered stripe-domains to disordered watermark-domains, while the average domain size decreases evidently from-635 nm to-100 nm. The domain switching was investigated through strain curves and ferroelectric hysteresis loops measured at different electric field amplitudes and frequencies. To fully polarize the PMN-28PT-xDy ceramics, the electric field amplitude was found better be higher than 2.5E(c). If pole the ceramics under a. c. electric field of 3Ec, the electric field frequency had better not exceed f2. In general, the rare-earth Dy doping has significant effect on domain configuration and domain switching as well as the piezoelectricity.