Sol-Gel Synthesis of PZT-Glass Nanocomposites Using a Simple System and Characterization

A simple inorganic system has been developed for the sol–gel synthesis of piezoelectric PZT–glass nanocomposites. Nanocrystalline PZT are nucleated from the amorphous xerogel through controlled heat treatment at 600°C. The formation of the crystalline phase, particle size, morphology, kinetics, and mechanism of crystallization of PZT in the glass matrix have been studied using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and differential thermal analysis. The piezoelectric characteristics of the PZT–glass compositions have been determined, and are correlated with the microstructure and the crystalline phase of PZT.