Memory effect of a mechanical anomaly related to ferroelastic domain switching in rhombohedral lead zirconate titanate ceramics

An anomaly in the temperature dependent mechanical properties of a lead zirconate titanate ferroelectric ceramic has been observed by dynamic mechanical analysis. The anomaly, seen as a rise in modulus, accompanied by a decrease in internal friction, occurs in the low-temperature phase below T-C. The temperature of the anomalies varies systematically with the applied forces and the anomaly does exhibit a memory effect. The corresponding static bending deformation, mainly from remnant strain by ferroelastic domain switching, is analyzed, and a critical remnant strain value for triggering the anomaly is obtained. The anomaly is thought to be induced by pinning and depinning of domain walls. The results confirm that the memory effect and the occurrence of the anomaly are controlled by ferroelastic domain switching. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.