Experimental research on dynamic mechanical properties of PZT ceramic under hydrostatic pressure

An experimental technique for initially applied hydrostatic pressure in specimens subjected to axial impact has been developed to study the dynamic mechanical properties of materials. The technique was employed for the purpose of examining the dynamic mechanical properties of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) at zero to 15 MPa hydrostatic pressures. Experimental results unambiguously exhibit the ductile behavior of PZT when hydrostatic pressure is involved. The compressive strength is demonstrated sensitive to the initial hydrostatic pressure and the strain-rate. The fracture modes are analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moreover, a failure criterion based on Mohr–Coulomb failure theory is suggested to explain the brittle and ductile failure of PZT.

► We developed an experimental device to examine dynamic mechanical properties of PZT.
► Ductile behavior of PZT was seen when hydrostatic pressure was involved.
► Compressive strength was shown sensitive to hydrostatic pressure and strain-rate.
► A failure criterion was suggested to explain the failure behavior of PZT.