Characterization of (0.4)Pb₂(In,Nb)O[sub 6]:(0.6)Pb(Mg[sub ⅓]Nb[sub ⅔])O₃ relaxor ceramics

Abstract

The results of the development and characterization of a new relaxor ceramic with nominal composition (x)Pb₂(In,Nb)O[sub 6](1-x)Pb(Mg[sub ⅓]Nb[sub ⅔])O₃ solid solution with x = 0.4 are reported. The structural characteristics, including the long-range and short-range order, forbidden reflections, and the existence of mixed ordering, were studied by transmission electron microscopy. The most prominent microstructural feature of this compound, which has composition variations in the micro- and nano-regions, was investigated. The presence of the pyrochlore phase and the complex arrangement of inclusions that originate from processing are illustrated. The electrical characteristics of the compound including pyroelectric, piezoelectric, electrostrictive and hysteresis properties are reported. Notable properties of the compound include a reduced hysteresis loop and nonlinear behavior at high field.