Semiconductive Filler-Based Hybrid Piezoelectric Materials

This chapter presents an extensive examination of semiconductive filler-based hybrid piezoelectric materials, with a specific focus on lead-based and lead-free compositions. Lead-based materials, including lead titanate (PbTiO₃) and lead zirconate (PbZrO₃), undergo modification or are employed in solid solutions to amplify their piezoelectric properties. Techniques such as doping and modification, such as the addition of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) or Sb₂O₃, are discussed to enhance the mechanical and electrical characteristics of lead-based ceramics. Moreover, alternative lead-free options, such as potassium sodium niobate (KNN) are explored, with an emphasis on customizing their properties through chemical modifications. Furthermore, the incorporation of semiconductive fillers such as PZT and graphene into piezoelectric matrices is emphasized as a viable strategy for creating nanocomposites with improved piezoelectric properties. These hybrid materials exhibit significant potential for diverse applications in energy-harvesting, structural health monitoring, and related fields.