Local atomic structure and large piezoelectric response

The atomistic origin of large piezoelectric response in materials such as PZN-PT is discussed based upon the structural information garnered by pulsed neutron and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. High dielectric or piezoelectric responses of mixed-ion ferroelectric materials are produced as a result of competing interactions which are reflected in local structure. A new avenue for further improving piezoelectric response is proposed based upon the local structural information.