Evolution of a stable polarization state in lead zirconate titanate ceramics by repeated partial switching

The development of the ferroelectric polarization of lead–zirconate–titanate (PZT) bulk ceramics under varying electric fields is examined. Repeated partial switching and backswitching results in a decrease of the switchable polarization, but has no effect on the effective strain. This is attributed to a stabilization of the domain structure, which leads to a decrease of the electric losses. The results are discussed with respect to the effective strain of PZT ceramics for piezoelectric actuators.