Investigation of the structure and properties of (KxNa1-x)NbO3-based piezoelectric ceramics using both conventional and high-throughput experimentation (HTE) methods (PDF)

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) based piezoelectric ceramics are currently the most used for manufacturing actuators, sensors, resonators, transducers and other electromechanical devices due to a combination of excellent piezoelectric properties, wider operating temperature range and a variety of other characteristics [1]. The major component for these piezoelectric ceramics which contributes about 60 wt% is the element lead (Pb). It is a soft element which is classified as a heavy metal and is also toxic. It has been used from as far back as the second century B.C in Rome when lead (II)- acetate [(Pb(CH3COO)2] was used for making wine because of its sweet flavor. Its harmful effects have been known for a long time ago because most of the deaths at the time were traced to it. Children are more susceptible to Pb attacks than adults because their central nervous system is more vulnerable. Lead has the ability to attach itself strongly to sulfhydryl group on proteins and distort the enzymes and structural proteins. It can also cleave to the ribophosphate backbone of transfer Ribonucleic acid (tRNA) catalyticallywith no evidence of a threshold and mimics or competes with calcium in the body. Some of the consequences of lead poisoning for children include; behavioral disorders, learning difficulties, low intelligence quotient etc. while hypertension and renal failure are some of the consequences of acute lead poisoning. Some of the sources of exposure to lead include leaded dishware, lead workers, electronics, paints, cosmetics etc. Recent studies indicate that there is no threshold for lead but 10µg/dL is seen to be the acceptable blood levels. The primary way of prevention is the avoidance of contact with leaded materials [2].