Growth and properties of (1−x)Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 (x=0.07–0.11) ferroelectric single crystals by a top-seeded solution growth method

The relaxor-based single crystals of complex perovskite solid solutions, Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 [PMN–PT] and Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 [PZN–PT], exhibit extraordinary piezoelectric performance: displaying extremely high piezoelectric coefficients, very large electromechanical coupling factors, and exceptionally high strain. These materials outperform the currently used Pb(Zr1−xTix)O3 [PZT] ceramics, making them the materials of choice for the next generation of electromechanical transducers for a broad range of advanced applications. In this article, the PZN–xPT (x=0.07–0.11) single crystals near the morphotropic phase boundary were prepared using the top-seeded solution growth technique. Ferro-/dielectric and piezoelectric properties, crystal chemistry, domain structure, and electromechanical coupling properties were systematically characterized. It is showed that the top-seeded solution growth method is an effective alternative technique for preparing the high quality PZN–xPT ferroelectric crystals, which is effective in controlling nucleation/growth of the PZN–xPT single crystals and suppressing the undesired Pb deficient pyrochlore phase by providing a Pb rich environment.