Fabrication of combined 0–3 and 1–3 connectivities PZT/epoxy resin composites

PZT/epoxy resin composites of combined 0–3 and 1–3 connectivities were fabricated, for the first time, using suction, dice and fill techniques. Two types of composites (PZT(m)/epoxy resin and PZT(sp)/epoxy resin) were produced using PZT powders prepared by mixed oxide and spray-drying methods. Physical, mechanical, dielectric and piezoelectric properties of the composites were examined. Generally, overall results between the two composites were found to be very similar (volumetric changes ∼34–37%, d₃₃∼20.2–25.3 pC/N, K_p∼0.54–0.61). Higher density was found in PZT(sp)/epoxy resin, however, due to better packing of particles. Moreover, both PZT/epoxy resin composites exhibited very low acoustic impedance (Z∼4.12–4.84 Mrayls), which is very close to that of human tissue and water. Therefore, these new composites may be suitable for use in medical applications. PACS 81.05.Qk; 81.05.Zx; 77.87.-s