Formation and characterization of three-ply structured multiferroic Sm0.88Nd0.12Fe1.93–Pb(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O3 ceramic composites via a solid solution process

A new three-ply structured multiferroic Sm0.88Nd0.12Fe1.93–Pb(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O3 (MS-PZT) ceramic composite has been developed successfully by cofiring at 900°C under argon atmosphere via a solid solution process. The magnetic and polarization hysteresis loops prove the coexistence of the ferromagnetic and ferroelectric phases in the composites. TEM images show the alloy particles were dispersed uniformly and mainly located at the PZT grain boundaries. The DC resistivity as high as 109–1010Ω.cm was obtained and only varies slightly with the volume fraction of the conductive phase Sm0.88Nd0.12Fe1.93. The composites can be poled under a high electric field strength at a temperature of 150–180°C. The dielectric, piezoelectric, and magnetic properties of the composites can be tailored according to the desirable requirement to meet designated application by a simple, flexible, and reproducible route, providing a promising potential approach to a new class of electric circuit and significant miniaturization of devices.