Dielectric properties, polarization process, and charge transport in granular (FeCoZr)x(Pb(ZrTi)O3)(100−x) nanocomposites near the percolation threshold

This paper presents the research of dielectric properties of (FeCoZr)x(Pb(ZrTi)O3)(100−x) granular metal–dielectric nanocomposites below the percolation threshold. Tested materials have been prepared by using the ion beam sputtering technique in the atmosphere of argon and oxygen. The impedance spectroscopy method has been used to investigate the polarization processes and dielectric relaxation mechanism in the granular nanocomposites. AC measurements in the frequency region of 50 Hz to 1 MHz and measuring temperature range of 81–293 K have been performed. Interfacial, in the low frequency region, and dipolar, in intermediate and high frequency regions, types of polarization processes were observed. The interfacial relaxation process testifies to charge accumulation at the interfaces (grain boundaries) between conductive nanoparticles surrounding an insulative matrix, as well as the space charge region around the contact area between the measurement probes and tested sample. Dipolar polarization corresponds to electric dipole formation after applying to the material an external electric field. The conduction mechanism in the tested material is considered to be hopping carrier exchange and takes place between metallic phase nanograins. It corresponds to the exponential frequency dependence of conductivity. The relaxation mechanism in the (FeCoZr)x(Pb(ZrTi)O3)(100−x) layer has been estimated as a near-Debye process with relaxation time distribution. The nanocomposite exhibits dielectric type and capacitive characteristics in the whole measuring frequency range.