Harmonic analysis of polarization hysteresis of aged PZTs

Many studies have been performed on aging of lead zirconate titanate (PZT), but a single model has not been universally accepted. An aim of this research was to determine whether harmonic analysis could distinguish among the models for the aging of PZTs. Doped and undoped PZT samples were prepared, and the aging behaviors of relative dielectric constant (K), planar coupling factor (k(p)), dielectric coefficient (d(33)), and polarization were analyzed by both weak-field and harmonic analysis methods at 37 degrees C. Results indicated that aging behavior, as noted by a harmonic analysis, substantially agreed with the weak-field behavior. This finding suggests that harmonic analysis is a promising new method for studying the aging of PZTs, which may contribute to developing a better aging model for PZTs.