Materials issues in design and performance of piezoelectric actuators: An overview

The performance of ceramic actuators is dependent on complex factors, which are divided into three major categories: the properties of the ceramic itself, and coupled issues with the device design and drive technique. These important issues are reviewed from these viewpoints. Optimization of ceramic actuator composition and doping is necessary to enhance the induced strains and to stabilize temperature and external stress dependence. The device design affects considerably its durability and lifetime. Failure detection or "health" monitoring methods of ceramic actuators will increase the reliability remarkably. Regarding drive techniques, pulse drive and a.c. drive require special attention; the vibration overshoot after applying a sharp-rise step/pulse voltage to the actuator causes a large tensile force and a long-term application of a.c. voltage generates considerable heat. (C) 1998 Acta Metallurgica Inc.