Orthorhombic to tetragonal phase transition due to stress release in (Li,Ta)-doped(K,Na)NbO3 lead-free piezoceramics

XRD and Raman scattering experiments revealed an interesting finding that phase structure changed from orthorhombic to tetragonal symmetry when pulverizing (Li,Ta)-doped (K,Na)NbO3 lead-free piezoelectric ceramics (sintered body) to powder. Both orthorhombic and tetragonal phases coexist in the Li-0.05(Na0.51K0.49)(0.95)Nb0.80Ta0.20O3.00 (LKNNT) sintered bulk sample at room temperature, but almost only the tetragonal phase is observed in the ground powder. In addition, annealing experiment enhanced the formation of tetragonal phase and improved the temperature stability of piezoelectricity. It is revealed that the internal stress existing in the LKNNT ceramics favors the formation of orthorhombic phase, which transfers to tetragonal phase when the stress was released. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.