Finite element modelling of 3-3 piezocomposites

Fabrication, modelling and use of porous ceramics for ultrasonic transducer applications

“…Finite element method has also been used to study the properties of 3-3 connectivity materials [26]. The modelling used in this paper is based on a method developed in previous work, and adapted to porous piezoelectric materials [27][28][29].…”

Network Modelling of 3-3 Piezocomposite Materials

“…Good correlation between model and experimental data has been observed with this technique. The model offers a number of advantages over current simplistic models [2,8,9,11] which consider a single pore in a piezoceramic matrix. Principally, by modelling a random array of pores the change in properties as the composite system changes from fully interconnected PZT (high density) to fully isolated PZT (low density) can be modelled, as shown by d 33 results (see Fig.…”

“…In this paper a model is developed which better represents a porous PZT ceramic in which the porosity in impregnated with air or polymer. While earlier papers considered single pores [2,8,9,11], this paper will use a three-dimensional network to model a PZT material containing a random array of a large number of pores at a predefined volume fraction of porosity. Porous piezoelectric materials are often manufactured by the addition of a polymer that is burnt out during the sintering processes.…”

“…The rapid decrease in the PZT-air composite at ∼15% PZT arises from the loss of any stress or strain transfer as the PZT cells loose connectivity and become isolated in a zero stiffness medium (air). In single pore models the d 33 remains constant to almost zero volume fractions of piezoelectric, since a single pore model cannot simulate the isolation of PZT in air [2,8,11]. The relatively large scatter of the d 33 results for PZT-air at 15% PZT is likely to be a result of some networks having some interconnection of PZT (high d 33 ), while other networks having purely isolated PZT (low d 33 ).…”

Synthesis and assembly of nonspherical hollow silica colloids under confinement

“…23 Most importantly, our studies of these simple anisotropic particles hint at the diversity of assemblies that can be constructed using nonspherical colloids. As such, it represents a positive step towards achieving molecular mimicry, whereby self-organization of systems with novel properties is driven by codes embedded within the constituent building blocks.…”