Numerical modeling of PZT nonlinear electromechanical behavior

Lead, Zirconate, Titanate ceramics undergo polarization switching under electric fields, resulting in polarization hysteresis and strain butterfly loops. In addition, compressive stress inputs lead to ferroelastic 90 degree(s) polarization switching which interacts with the ferroelectric switching under the combined electric fields and stress inputs. In this paper, the phenomenological scalar Preisach model is modified consistent with the above physical phenomena to simulate the polarization and strain loops under the combined electric field and stress inputs. The hysterons that are used in the classical Preisach model are modified to take into account the effect of stress inputs and the effect of polarization switching. Simulations are carried out and the model is suggested as a simulation tool for nonlinear transformations occurring in materials.