Orthorhombic–tetragonal phase coexistence and piezoelectric behavior in (1−x)(Ba,Ca)(Ti,Sn)O3–x(Ba,Ca)(Ti,Zr)O3 lead-free ceramics

Abstract A new method has been used to prepare BaTiO 3 -based ceramics by combining Ba 0.98 Ca 0.02 Ti 0.94 Sn 0.06 O 3 and Ba 0.85 Ca 0.15 Ti 0.9 Zr 0.1 O 3 , and (1− x )Ba 0.98 Ca 0.02 Ti 0.94 Sn 0.06 O 3 – x Ba 0.85 Ca 0.15 Ti 0.9 Zr 0.1 O 3 ceramics were prepared by the normal sintering. The effect of BCTZ content on their phase structure and piezoelectric properties is investigated. A dense microstructure is developed, and a coexistence of orthorhombic and tetragonal phases is identified in the ceramic with x = 0.40, showing a good dielectric and piezoelectric behavior of ɛ r ∼ 5500, tan δ ∼ 0.3%, and d 33 ∼ 407 pC/N. As a result, the combined method of BCTS and BCTZ could improve the piezoelectric properties of barium titanate ceramics.