Ba4LiNb3−xSbxO12: Phase evolution, microstructure and optimized microwave dielectric properties

Series microwave dielectric ceramics with the composition of Ba4LiNb3−xSbxO12 (0≤x≤3) were prepared by the solid state reaction method. The phase transformation, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of ceramics were investigated by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a network analyzer. The sequence of structure transformation was detected with increasing x values; Hexagonal (0≤x≤0.75)→Hexagonal+Cubic (0.75

Graphical abstractThe substitution of Sb for Nb has a great effect on the crystal structure of the ceramics. The phase transformed from hexagonal to cubic structure with increasing the substitution content (x). Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Ba4LiNb3−xSbxO12 ceramics were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. ► A crystal evolution from a hexagonal to cubic phase was observed in ceramics. ► The τf value was tailored to near-zero. ► The tailored mechanism of microwave properties was discussed.