Effect of Low Temperature on Electromagnetic Radiation from Soft PZT SP-5A Under Impact Loading

We report electromagnetic radiation (EMR) detection from Soft PZT (SP-5A) under impact at low temperature (300–203 K). EMR from our sample was detected by a copper loop antenna placed around the sample. We found that EMR amplitude decreases with lowering the temperature at which the sample was placed. Low temperatures restrict the domain wall motion, due to which dipole movement becomes hindered, which hampers the movement of the charges. Reduced acceleration of charges under impact corresponds to the reduced amplitude of the EMR signals. EMR voltage decreases from 68 V to 21 V as temperature decreases from 300 K to 203 K. The average EMR energy release rate shows a smoothly declining pattern with the decrease in the sample temperature, as well as in hf/kT. EMR detection was made by elastically deforming the samples. Significant EMR voltage even at adverse operating temperatures suggests potential of these materials and this technique for structural health monitoring.