Ca(Zn1/3Nb2/3−xVx)O3 solid solution: Microstructural evolution, optimized sintering behavior and microwave dielectric properties

Microwave dielectric ceramics with the composition of Ca(Zn1/3Nb2/3−xVx)O3 (CZNV, 0≤x≤0.02) were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. The sintering behavior, phase structure, and microwave dielectric properties of CZNV ceramics were investigated. All samples sintered at 1125–1225 °C for 3 h remained a single phase. However, the grain shape changed from equiaixed to rectangle with increasing x. The dielectric properties of CZNV solid solution exhibited a significant dependence on the sintering condition, microstructure and composition. The Q×f value and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) can be improved with substituting V for Nb. As x=0.005, Ca(Zn0.333Nb0.662V0.005)O3 ceramic sintered at 1200 °C for 3 h in air exhibited good microwave dielectric properties with εr=34.3, Q×f=16,420 GHz, and τf=−17.6 ppm/°C.