Characteristics of Sb Doping in Potassium Tantalate Niobate Single Crystals

Sb doping is an effective method to modify the properties of perovskite ferroelectrics and improve material characteristics. However, the specific effects of Sb doping in perovskite ferroelectrics remain unclear. In this paper, we investigate the properties of Sb-doped potassium tantalum niobate single crystals. Using an improved top-seeded solution growth method, we successfully grew Sb-doped KTaxNb1–xO3 (Sb:KTN) single crystals. We examined the occupation and valence states of the doped Sb ions and their effects on the crystal structure. Additionally, we characterized the dielectric, ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and optical properties of the Sb:KTN single crystal. This study highlights the impact of Sb doping on the structure and properties of KTN single crystals, providing a foundation for designing and applying lead-free perovskite ferroelectrics.