Enhanced electrical properties in KNN-based ternary ceramics with high Curie temperature

(1 − x)K0.48Na0.52Nb0.965Sb0.035O3–x(0.9Bi0.5Na0.5ZrO3–0.1BaSnO3) [abbreviated as KNNS-x(BNZ-BS)] lead-free piezoelectric ceramics were designed and fabricated by using the conventional solid-state method. The phase structure, microstructure, and electrical properties have been discussed in detail. The good comprehensive properties (d33 ~ 390 pC/N; TC ~ 302 °C, Spos ~ 0.121%, Suni ~ 0.133%, d33* ~ 404 pm/V) can be obtained for the ceramic of x = 0.040 with R-T ferroelectric phase co-existence near room temperature. Moreover, a good temperature stability of Suni (S125 °C /SRT ~ 84.09%) in the ceramics with x = 0.040 is obtained at the temperature range of room temperature to 125 °C. The enhancement of electrical properties as well as higher Curie temperature (d33 ~ 390 pC/N; TC ~ 302 °C) indicates that KNNS-0.040(BNZ-BS) ceramic is a promising lead-free piezoceramic, especially in high temperature applied field.