Properties of 0-3 composites

Composite materials consisting of a ferroelectric ceramic powder and an electrically inert polymer matrix are designed as having a 0-3 connectivity. These composites offer substantial advantages for the design and production of special-purpose transducers. The properties of 0-3 composites prepared with calcium-modified lead titanate and an epoxy resin are detailed. The effects of environmental conditions, especially humidity and temperature, are considered. Mechanisms to explain the observed changes are suggested. The importance of the above effects for transducer applications is discussed. >