Enhanced piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties in Mn-doped Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-BaTiO3 single crystals

High piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties have been found in Mn-doped Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-BaTiO3 single crystals, which were grown by a top-seeded solution method. The electrical resistivity, dielectric constant, and ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties were all found to be notably enhanced by Mn. The piezoelectric constant d(33) and electromechanical coupling coefficients k(t) and k(31) were found to be as high as 483 pC/N, 0.56, and 0.40, respectively. These values are much higher than those previously reported for Pb-free piezoelectric crystals, demonstrating the real potential for alternative lead-free systems for sensor and piezoelectric applications.