High-power performance enhancement in PZT-based piezoceramics via hot-pressing

Piezoelectric ceramics based on lead zirconate titanate are widely used in sensors, actuators, and transducers, but achieving high density and reliable performance for high-power applications remains a major challenge. This study explores optimization of high-power performance through hot-pressing. The combined effect of external pressure and sintering aids reduces the sintering temperature from 1175 °C to 900 °C, minimizing lead volatilization while promoting densification. Sintering in an inert atmosphere generates oxygen vacancies that act as domain-pinning centers, thereby enhancing the stability of piezoelectric properties under high-power conditions. Hot-pressed ceramics reach a maximum vibration velocity of 2.5 m/s, compared with 1.7 m/s for conventionally sintered samples, and the mechanical quality factor remains far more stable at elevated vibration levels. These results provide a practical pathway to improve the durability, efficiency, and reliability of piezoelectric devices in demanding high-power applications.