Piezoelectric Sensors and Sensor Materials

Abstract

This paper reviews the current trends and historical development of piezoelectric sensors and sensor materials technology. It begins with a discussion of the bases of piezo- and ferroelectric activity, followed by an overview of the most commonly used piezoelectric ceramic: lead zirconate titanate (PZT). A discussion of the properties and applications of piezoelectric crystals and additional piezoelectric ceramics is followed by a description of several sensor configurations prepared from bulk ceramics. An extensive review and comparison of piezoelectric ceramic—polymer composite sensors based on the connectivity of the constituent phases is also presented. We conclude our discussion of sensor configurations with recent examples of piezoelectric ceramic—metal composite sensors, and expected future developments in the area of piezoelectric sensors.