Structural, optical, and electrical properties of Nd-doped Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3

The effects of Nd3+ addition on structure and functional properties of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) are examined. X-ray crystallography has allowed the identification of a continuous solid solution with the general formula Na0.5[Bi1−xNdx]0.5TiO3. In the composition range 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.25 the structure was found to crystallize in rhombohedral symmetry while for higher Nd3+ concentrations tetragonal symmetry is favored. The functional properties are investigated in more detail for the solid solution containing 5% Nd3+ where an overall improvement of the ferroelectric properties and a rather high pyroelectric coefficient could be obtained. The fluorescence behavior of this composition is also reported. It is thought that Nd3+ doped NBT may be highly promising for a range of applications requiring lead-free ferroelectrics with improved properties.

► Nd3+ doped NBT ferroelectric ceramic shows two different structures depending on Nd3+ content.
► The optimum Nd3+ concentration was found in the range of 5%.
► Improved ferroelectric and pyroelectric properties are obtained for 5% Nd3+ doping.
► Highest photoluminescence is obtained for 5% Nd3+ doping.