Preparation of Pb(Zr_1−xTi_x)O₃ powders from complex alkoxide and their lower-temperature crystallization

Pb(Zr_xTi_x)O₃ (PZT) powders of 0.2–0.4 μm particle sizes could be obtained from the complex alkoxides synthesized from lead acetate, Zr(OBuⁿ)₄, and Ti(OEt)₄. The powders crystallized to well-crystalline perovskite phases at a temperature as low as 250 °C, independent of the compositional ratio of the B site (Zr/Ti). For the preparation of powders, the complexing of alkoxides, addition of the second solvent such as acetone, acetonitrile, or methyl acetate, and base-catalyzed hydrolysis with ammonia water were essential.