Lead zirconate– titanate compositions display piezoelectric properties which are utilized in the production of FM-coupled mode filters, resonators in microprocessor clocks, photoflash actuators, phonograph cartridges, gas ignitors, audio tweeters and beepers, and ultrasonic transducers. The uses of other zirconium compounds result primarily from the ability of zirconium to complex with carboxyl groups and to form an insoluble organic compound.
Lead zirconate titanate, Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.3)O3toPb(Zr0.9Ti0.1)O3,is also known as PZT ceramics.It is used mainly in the manufacture of piezoelectricceramic elements.
The wide range of possible compositionsprovides a wide range of dielectric constantvalues, piezoelectric activity, and primary transitiontemperatures. These are normally greaterthan is possible with barium titanate. Smalladditions of niobium, strontium, barium, andantimony serve as modifiers.
Two techniques for producing PZT powdersare used today. Calcining (CMO) is themore common method of powder production,and the calcine is then formed and fired in itsfinal shape.
PZT is the most widely used polycrystallinepiezoelectric material. Its electrical output canmeasure pressure. It is used in hydrophones,which permit listening to sound transmittedthrough water.
