Domain configuration and switching contributions to the enhanced performance of rainbow actuators

Robert W. Schwartz; Youngwoo Moon

doi:10.1117/12.432780

11 July 2001 Domain configuration and switching contributions to the enhanced performance of rainbow actuators

Robert W. Schwartz, Youngwoo Moon

Proceedings Volume 4333, Smart Structures and Materials 2001: Active Materials: Behavior and Mechanics; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.432780
Event: SPIE's 8th Annual International Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 2001, Newport Beach, CA, United States

Abstract

Stress-biased actuators, such as Rainbow and Thunder^TM devices, offer enhanced displacement performance compared to unimorph and bimorph actuators. Quantifying the relative contributions of mechanics (layer thickness ratio) versus stress effects on actuator performance has proven difficult. In this paper, the importance of domain switching and altered domain configuration on actuator performance is considered. X-ray diffraction has been used to characterize the initial domain configuration in the surface region of the actuators, as well as the domain switching characteristics of the devices under moderate electric fields. Samples with different reduced layer thicknesses were fabricated to alter device stress state, and consequently, domain configuration and switching characteristics. Compared to poled polycrystalline ceramics of the same composition, Rainbow actuators display a slightly higher a-domain population in the surface region of the devices. Interestingly, despite the presence of comparatively large lateral tensile stresses in this region of the device, x-ray diffraction indicates these devices also display greater 90 degree(s) (a- to c-domain) switching, which contributes to the large displacement responses that are observed. The contribution of stress to the enhanced performance of Rainbow and Thunder^TM devices is, thus, more accurately described as arising from a change in the initial domain configuration together with minimal suppression in the switching response under high lateral tensile stresses, rather than simply a stress-enhancement of domain switching. The effects of stress on the initial domain configuration and switching response were quantified to define the specific role of stress on the electromechanical response of the devices.

Citation Download Citation

Robert W. Schwartz and Youngwoo Moon "Domain configuration and switching contributions to the enhanced performance of rainbow actuators", Proc. SPIE 4333, Smart Structures and Materials 2001: Active Materials: Behavior and Mechanics, (11 July 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.432780

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available