Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
1522997 | Materials Chemistry and Physics | 2012 | 5 Pages |
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.