Thermodynamic properties at the phase transition of Pb(Zr, Sn, Ti)O3 solid solutions

Field induced deformation and electrocaloric effect are investigated in the vicinity of phase transition at 163 degrees C. The sharp increase of electrostriction below T-C is explained by the field induced ferroelectric to antiferroelectric phase transition. The antiferroelectric phase appears and remains stable below T-C in the absence of field. Elastic compliance and thermal expansion as functions of temperature are studied.