Structural and dielectric properties of Nd modified Pb(Zr0.60Ti0.40)O3 ceramics

Ferroelectric Pb1−zNdz(Zr0.60Ti0.40)1−z/4O3 (z=0.07, 0.08, 0.10) (PNZT) fine powders have been prepared through the acetate alkoxide sol–gel techniques. XRD and TEM studies indicate that the PNZT powders can be formed at 550°C in the perovskite structure. The pellet samples (sintered at 1300°C for 7 h) prepared from the above powders have high density. SEM study shows the uniform distribution of spherical grains throughout the sample surface. Studies of dielectric and electrical properties show that PNZT has diffuse phase transition of second order.