Axially distorted 3-3 piezoelectric composites for hydrophone applications

Application of reticulated ceramic technology to the fabrication of 3-3 lead zirconate-titanate (PZT)/Spurr epoxy composites has been investigated. Use of this technology provides a substantial improvement in manufacturability over other methods. Directional distortion of the ceramic structure to enhance the composite's hydrostatic response is also possible. Composite fabrication is described and the effects of distortion on the piezoelectric properties are presented. The results for K 33 and g33 are found to be comparable to other 3-3 PZT/epoxy composites while d 33 and hydrostatic g h are reduced with density.