A study of a 1-3-2 type piezoelectric composite

A novel 1-3-2 type piezoelectric composite is developed. There are piezoelectric ceramic framework supports at transverse and longitudinal directions in its structure, so it is free from the influence of any outside mechanic impact and environmental temperature change. The sample characteristic is good coherence. It has many advantages, such as a high piezoelectricity, lower density and acoustic impedance matching with water and tissue easily. Based on Newnham's series and parallel theory of composites, the calculation formulae of dielectric and piezoelectric constants of a 1-3-2 type piezoelectric composite are deduced. The sample's characteristics indicate that a 1-3-2 type piezoelectric composite's theoretic calculation values are in good agreement with the measurement results. Element samples have been designed, manufactured and measured. The results indicate that the resonant frequency, resonant impedance, piezoelectricity and static capacity of these samples are stable. It is easy to design sensor array elements using this material.