Metallization of piezoelectric ceramic surfaces

This paper reports metallization of PZT (lead zirconate titanate) piezoelectric ceramic surfaces accomplished by an electroless plating process with proper after-treatment. With this method, nickel electrodes can be formed on PZT piezoelectric ceramic components used in piezoelectric ceramic wave filters. The main mechanical and electric properties of the piezoelectric ceramic components with this type of plated Ni electrode are as good as, or even better than, those with fired-on Ag electrodes. This paper introduces the detailed process of pretreatment, electroless plating and after-treatment, and discusses the principles, results and various effective factors in each process, and indicates preferred operating conditions and control methods feasible in practical production.