Microstructure and dielectric properties of Zn3Nb2O8 ceramics prepared by a two-stage sintering method

In this work, the effects of various two-stage sintering schemes on phase formation, microstructural development and dielectric properties of Zn3Nb2O8 ceramics were systematically determined via a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) and dielectric measurement techniques. In comparison with the conventional sintered samples, it was found that single-phase Zn3Nb2O8 ceramics with maximum density of ∼99% theoretical density, smaller average grain size (∼3 μm) and better dielectric properties can be achieved via a two-stage sintering technique.