Transforming Waste to Innovation: Sustainable Piezoelectric Properties of Pb(Ti0.52Zr0.48)O3 with Recycled β-PbO Massicot

In this study, we present an indigenous approach to enhancing the properties of Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 by synthesizing it from β-PbO obtained from spent lead-acid batteries. Initially, β-PbO, orthorhombic massicot, was produced by two-step heating, and 99.9% lead powder was derived from recovered lead-acid batteries at 700 °C. The synthesized β-PbO was thoroughly analyzed using X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Subsequently, the β-PbO precursor was utilized for the synthesis of PZT, offering a cost-effective alternative. The morphology of the sintered sample revealed the formation of homogeneous and uniform grains, indicative of significant densification (∼99%) of the ceramic. The sintered PZT exhibited an enhanced piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 270 pC/N, a Qm factor of 30.94, and a dielectric constant of 1590 at ∼10 kHz. This study highlights the feasibility of using β-PbO derived from recycled lead ingots to synthesize materials, presenting a sustainable approach that contributes to technological progress and environmental conservation.