"The project is aimed at solving the fundamental scientific problem of the physics of non-equilibrium state related to the description and explanation of the micro- and nanodomain structures at phase transitions under spatially inhomogeneous conditions. For solving this problem we will thoroughly investigate the evolution of domain structure in single crystal relaxor ferroelectrics of the PMN-PT family and lead-free piezoelectric ceramics both experimentally and theoretically. This will help to control their domain structure with the final goal of improving their piezoelectric characteristics and to create periodical domain structure for the frequency conversion of the laser light.
Russian group (PI V. Ya. Shur) will develop and validate the methods of the visualization of domain structure by the methods of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal Raman microscopy. Detailed experimental investigation and computer modeling of the evolution of domain structure will be performed. Local piezoelectric properties and switching of ferroelectric domains will be studied by the Piezoresponse Force Microscopy. Periodically poled structures based on PMN-PT will be fabricated in view of their non-linear optical and piezoelectric applications.
Chinese group (PI Xiaoyong Wei, Xian Jiaotong University, Xian) will develop improved methods of crystal growth of rhombohedral and tetragonal PMN-PT single crystals and sintering of BMT-BT and BCZT lead-free piezoceramics. The prepared high-quality samples will be distributed between the partners. They will measure the macroscopic dielectric, ferroelectric, piezoelectric and optical properties and performed their structural analysis. They will also produce prototypes of optoelectric and piezoelectric devices.
Indian group (PI, S.S. Islam, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi) will carry out detailed investigation of the structural and optical properties of PMN-PT single crystals using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. They will also study electrical properties of single crystals and ceramics in a wide temperature range in order to understand the mechanism of electrical conductivity that is one of the key factors of the bulk polarization screening mechanism."