Development of fine scale piezoelectric ceramic/polymer composites via incorporation of fine PZT fibers

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) fibers 50 to 70 μm in diameter, formed by the Viscous Suspension Spinning Process (VSSP) were sized and incorporated into piezoelectric ceramic/polymer composites. Water soluble polymer solutions containing polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, and ethylene glycol were used as sizing agents. The sized fibers formed a multifilament collimated bundle called a tow. The number of individual fibers in a tow varied between 10 and 500. The sized tows were dried at room temperature and cut to desired lengths, heat treated to remove the organic and fired to form straight rods. The rods were bundled and embedded in spurrs epoxy to fabricate 1-3 composites. Green tows were also woven into plain fabric and carpet structures. After firing, the diameter of the individual PZT fibers was 10 to 30 μm. The effect of sizing solution chemistry and concentration on tow tightness and flexibility is reported. The microstructure and electromechanical properties of composites with a variety of architectures are also discussed