Lead zirconate titanate (PbZrTiO3, PZT) piezoelectric materials are one of the most prevalent and functional materials nowadays. Since the early discovery of this material in 1954, its application range has become increasingly widespread due to its high chemical stability, low production cost and excellent piezoelectric properties. Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) piezoelectric ceramics play a crucial role in daily life, not only in civilian or commercial use, but also in military applications. However, with global awareness about being environmentally friendly, the requirements of RoHS, the implementation of government regulations and the rise of the green energy markets, many academic research institutions and companies around the world are committed to developing of green piezoelectric materials that are lead-free and can gradually but seamlessly replace PZT.

     Since the 21st century, the search for lead-free piezoelectric materials that can potentially replace zirconate titanate (PZT) has been a focus of piezoelectric material research. Increasingly numbers of researchers are conducting studies on various lead-free piezoelectric material systems. Potassium sodium niobate (KNaNbO3, KNN), barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT), bismuth sodium titanate (BiNaTiO3, BNT), and bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3, BFO) based are considered the four most promising lead-free piezoelectric ceramic material systems that can replace lead-based materials.

     The lead-free (non-Pb) piezoelectric materials currently under research and development by Unictron’s research team are made of three different lead-free piezoelectric material systems: BT, KNN and BNT. We are more than willing and excited to discuss with any professionals who are interested or have demand in lead-free piezoelectric components. Let us explore all the possibilities of lead-free materials together.