Piezoelectric PZT nanodevices from a hybrid ligand burning method

Piezoelectric PZT powders were synthesized via a nonconventional ligand combustion approach and through a novel hybrid synthesis, using commercially available starting materials. The effect of the different reactants and stabilizers was investigated through thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry analyses, X-ray diffraction, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy. The size, morphology, crystallinity, and sintering behavior of the final PZT particles were determined. They reflect the effects due to the specific ligand and to the synthetic procedure used. The electro-mechanical properties of the PZT nanoparticles were evaluated in the pure state and in a mixture with calcium carbonate. Pressure-induced electric responses up to 2 V were detected.