Role of ferroelectric domain configurations on the indentation behaviour of Piezoceramics

Abstract

In this chapter, a brief overview of the theory of piezoelectricity, piezoelectric materials, and related fundamentals are presented with a focus on applications of piezoelectric materials in miniaturized devices. The microstructural length scales in piezoelectric materials are described. The prior literature on the mechanisms of enhancement in the electro-mechanical properties of various Pb and Pb-free piezoceramics is briefly discussed. Various small-scale characterization techniques used in this thesis are explained. The last part of the chapter presents the significant research gaps from the previous literature and states the scope of the present thesis.