Raman spectroscopic study of (Pb1−xBax)(Yb1∕2Ta1∕2)O3 ceramics

The ordered complex perovskite lead ytterbium tantalate undergoes a change in structural and dielectric properties as the concentration of Ba increases. The x-ray diffraction patterns show a decrease in the intensity of superlattice reflections due to Pb-antiparallel displacement as well as to B-site ordering. The structure approaches cubic symmetry with increase in Ba content. The dielectric response shows a gradual change from antiferroelectric to relaxor ferroelectric and then the relaxor behavior starts decreasing as Ba content increases. Raman-scattering study of the samples shows that some of the modes seen for Pb(Yb0.5Ta0.5)O3 disappear and an additional mode appears at 420cm−1 with increase in Ba concentration. A qualitative analysis of various modes suggests that the substitution of Ba for Pb leads to a decrease in the degree of ordering and occurrence of local distortions in the lattice as evidenced by the broadening of certain peaks in the Raman spectra.