Large dielectric response of 0.6PMN-0.4PZN relaxor ferroelectric ceramic for multilayer capacitors

Abstract 0.6PMN-0.4PZN solid solution ceramic was synthesized employing two stage columbite route using sintering temperature range 1000–1170 °C for calcination temperature 800 °C and 850 °C, respectively. XRD and SEM characterization revealed single perovskite phase formation in ceramic between 1050 °C to 1100 °C. The highest density upto 94% was achieved for the composition under study. The excellent dielectric properties were obtained at lower sintering temperature 1000–1100 °C. Ceramics sintered between 1000 °C–1100 °C exhibit εmax≈14000 and 24000 at 1 kHz with Tc = 51–48 °C which is near room temperature. A good correlation was obtained between dielectric properties with structure, microstructure and density. The TCC values within the limit of Z5U capacitor specification reflect ceramics of composition 0.6PMN-0.4PZN is a potential candidate for MLC.