Enhanced piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties in Mn-doped Na 0.5Bi0.5TiO3-BaTiO3 single crystals

Abstract

High piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties have been found in Mn-doped Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-BaTiO3 single crystals, which were grown by a top-seeded solution method. The electrical resistivity, dielectric constant, and ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties were all found to be notably enhanced by Mn. The piezoelectric constant d 33 and electromechanical coupling coefficients kt and k31 were found to be as high as 483 pC/N, 0.56, and 0.40, respectively. These values are much higher than those previously reported for Pb-free piezoelectric crystals, demonstrating the real potential for alternative lead-free systems for sensor and piezoelectric applications. © 2009 American Institute of Physics.