Effects of SiC nanofibers addition on microstructure and dielectric properties of lead titanate ceramics

Dense perovskite ferroelectric PbTiO3 (or PT) ceramics reinforced with SiC nanofibers have been successfully fabricated by a simple solid-state mixed oxide and conventional sintering method. Phase formation, densification, microstructure and dielectric properties of the composites were investigated as a function of SiC content. Addition of SiC nanofibers to a PT matrix did not result in unexpected reaction phase. Microstructural observations revealed that some SiC nanofibers were heterogeneously dispersed in PT matrix and at the matrix boundaries. The grain size was decreased significantly with addition of SiC nanofiber. Though the densification and mechanical strength were improved, the dielectric properties of PT/SiC composites were degraded dramatically.