Development of texture in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 prepared by reactive-templated grain growth process

The effect of sodium concentration on texture development in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 [BNT] bulk ceramics was examined. The 〈1 0 0〉-textured specimens were prepared by the reactive-template grain growth process using platelike Bi4Ti3O12 particles. Texture did not extensively develop in stoichiometric and Na-deficient BNT, but excess Na promoted extensive texture development together with densification. The role of excess Na was discussed based on the formation of a liquid phase.