Breakthrough in densification of ferroelectric PbTiO_3 with Si as sintering aid

摘要

We have successfully shown that Si acts as a sintering aid for PbTiO_3. It is possible to achieve ＋95/100 of the theoretical single crystal density without hot pressing, using 2 mol/100 of Si as an additive. Si acts as a binder in the matrix and prevents crumbling of the sample by sustaining the large strain developed during phase transformation while cooling. Moreover, the presence of Si does not affect the crystal structure and tetragonality of PbTiO_3 and thereby helps to retain the physical properties of the material. Availability of highly dense PbTiO_3 samples in required shapes and sizes will help in exploriation of the excellent ferroelectric and pyroelectric properties of PbTiO_3.