Neutron and x-ray scattering studies of relaxors

The extensive and wide-ranging neutron and x-ray scattering studies of relaxors carried out by Gen Shirane and his collaborators are reviewed. Among the many results they have reported in some 50 scientific papers published since 1999, there are three especially notable accomplishments; namely, the discovery of a monoclinic phase near the morphotropic phase boundary, the clarification of the existence and roles of transverse optic soft-mode phonons, and detailed studies of polar nanoregions particularly by diffuse scattering techniques. We will focus mostly on the above topics, and discuss the impact of these on the research and understanding of relaxors.