The piezoelectric, pyroelectric and photoelectronic properties of PLZT Rainbow ceramics

The piezoelectric, pyroelectric and photoelectronic properties of PLZT Rainbow ceramics of selected compositions were investigated. It was found that the Rainbow samples had a very strong piezoelectric effect when operated in the dome mode. The piezoelectric response decreased gradually with increasing frequency before occurrence of mechanical resonances. The pyroelectric properties of the samples were slightly enhanced due to the coupling of the Rainbow's domed structure with the piezoelectric effect. The domed structure and internal stress of Rainbow ceramics had a minimal impact on their photovoltaic and photoconductive characteristics.