The effects of sintering temperature on the properties of lead-free (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3–SrTiO3 ceramics

Lead-free (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3 ceramics doped with 0.5 mol% SrTiO3 have been prepared by the conventional mixed-oxide method with sintering temperature at 1060–1120 °C in this paper. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric, piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties are also investigated. The results present that the increase of the sintering temperature is very effective in improving the density and electric properties. However, the samples would be deteriorated as they are sintered over the optimum temperature. 0.5 mol% SrTiO3 doped (Na0.5K0.5)NbO3 ceramics show excellent properties with sintering temperature at 1100 °C.