Effects of excess ZnO addition on La-doped PZN–PZT ceramics prepared by hot pressing

Effects of excess ZnO addition on phase structure, dielectric and piezoelectric properties in La-doped Lead zinc niobate, Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PZN)–PZT systems have been investigated. Addition of excess ZnO helps to suppress the formation of the pyrochlore phase. Microstructure revealed the grains size to decrease with excess ZnO addition. Enhanced Tmax and d33, and reduced ɛmax and Tan δ were observed. Adding proper excess ZnO in La-like doped PZN-based systems seems an effective approach to suppress the formation of the pyrochlore phase, enhance piezoelectric constant d33 and reduce dielectric loss.