“Monomorph Actuators” Using Semiconductive Ferroelectrics

A new type of bending actuator, “monomorph”, is proposed by using a single plate of semiconductive piezoelectric ceramics. The principle of bending originates from the nonuniform distribution of the electric field in a single plate caused by the semiconductor–metal electrode contact. Monomorph characteristics are exemplified in lead zirconate based and barium titanate ceramics. A bend curvature comparable to that of conventional piezoelectric “bimorphs” can be obtained.