Electromechanical studies of Ce-doped lead barium niobate (PBN60) ceramics

Pb0.60−(3y/2)CeyBa0.40Nb2O6, where y = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 mol.% stoichiometric ceramic compositions, were synthesized through the solid-state reaction method and characterized for dielectric and piezoelectric properties. X-ray diffraction patterns exhibited both orthorhombic and tetragonal phases. The composition in the Pb-rich region with orthorhombic phase near the morphotrophic phase boundary had a remarkable influence on the dielectric and electromechanical properties observed in 6 mol.% Ce and showed that this ceramic could be suitable for possible hydrophone, sensor and actuator applications.