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At least 127 records · Page 7

Electrical Properties of Barium and Zirconium Modified NBT Ferroelectric Ceramics

Recently a new wave of interest has risen on relaxor ferroelectrics with complex perovskite structure due to their wide use in fabrication of multilayer ceramic capacitors, electrostrictive actuators, and electromechanical transducers. The polycrystalline 0.93(Bi{sub 0.5}Na{sub 0.5})Ba{sub 0.07}Z{sub 0.04}T{sub 0.96}O{sub 3}(0.07BNBZT) ceramic material, which is in the vicinity of the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) has been prepared by using high temperature solid state reaction method. The tolerance factor has been estimated and found to be 0.815. XRD analysis revealed a rhombohedral perovskite type structure. SEM micrographs showed highly dense grains with rectangular shape. The average grain size is found to be 1.51{mu}m. Dielectric studies in the material ha indicated relaxor behaviour with diffuse phase transition. High value of {epsilon}{sub m}>1958 is found at 1kHz, Tm (phase transition temperature) 335 deg. C, The diffuseness parameter was established to be 1.60 revealing the relaxor behaviour. Further, to confirm the relaxor behaviour in the material, Vogel-Fulcher (V-F) relation has been used. Estimated V-F parameters are found to be T{sub f} = 138 deg. C, E{sub a} = 0.080 eV and {nu}{sub o} = 2.32x10{sup 8} Hz. Cole-Cole analysis has shown a non-Debye type relaxation in the system. Conductivity studies in the material obeyed the Jonscher's power law in frequency range of (45Hz-5MHz) and temperature range of (35 deg. C - 600 deg. C). The electric conduction in the system may be due to hopping/mobility/ transportation of charge carriers.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Effect of Fe doping on structural and impedance properties of PZTFN ceramics

An attempts have been made to synthesis the ceramics Pb{sub 1-3x/2} Fe{sub x}(Zr{sub 0.52}Ti{sub 0.48}){sub 1-5y/4} NbyO{sub 3} abbreviated as (PFZTN) for x = 1-6 mol% and y = 5.5 mol% by a semi-wet route. In the present paper, we have investigated the effect of Fe doping on structural and electrical properties of the PFZTN ceramics. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns reveal that PFZTN ceramics are single phase in nature. However, for x = 0.05 and 0.06, a secondary phase appears as discernible from the XRD profiles. Rietveld analysis of the powder diffraction data shows the presence of coexistence of tetragonal (P4mm space group) and rhombohedral phases (R3c space group) occurs near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) at x ≥ = 0.05. The log-log plots show that the conductivity increases with increase of temperature. The ac conductivity becomes sensitive at high frequency region and shifted towards higher frequency side with increasing temperature. It is observed that the activation energy (Ea) decreases with increasing frequency. This complex perovskite structure can be used as a multilayer ceramic capacitors and electromechanical transducers.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

A Paradigm Shift in Quality Assurance of COTS Capacitors for Space Applications

Limitations of a traditional approach to screening and qualification of COTS capacitors for space applications that is based on burn-in and life test requirements described in the relevant military specifications are analyzed. An alternative approach that is originated from analysis of highly accelerated life testing (HALT) of capacitors susceptible to wear-out failures and allows for assessments of the risks of failure during the mission is suggested. Examples include results of reliability testing of advanced BME ceramic capacitors, polymer tantalum capacitors and multianode manganese oxide tantalum capacitors.

Alexander A Teverovsky↗

Design of a fast computer-based partial discharge diagnostic system

Partial discharges cause progressive deterioration of insulating materials working in high voltage conditions and may lead ultimately to insulator failure. Experimental findings indicate that deterioration increases with the number of discharges and is consequently proportional to the magnitude and frequency of the applied voltage. In order to obtain a better understanding of the mechanisms of deterioration produced by partial discharges, instrumentation capable of individual pulse resolution is required. A new computer-based partial discharge detection system was designed and constructed to conduct long duration tests on sample capacitors. This system is capable of recording large number of pulses without dead time and producing valuable information related to amplitude, polarity, and charge content of the discharges. The operation of the system is automatic and no human supervision is required during the testing stage. Ceramic capacitors were tested at high voltage in long duration tests. The obtained results indicated that the charge content of partial discharges shift towards high levels of charge as the level of deterioration in the capacitor increases.

Oliva, Jose R.↗

Enhanced temperature-stable dielectric properties in oxygen annealed 0.85(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-0.15SrZrO3 ceramic

Highlights: • Prepared O{sub 2}-annealed KNN-15SZ could meet the EIA X8R specification. • Oxygen annealing resulted in different variation of T{sub m} of cores and shells. • Variation of T{sub m} related to decrease of oxygen vacancies and diffusion of KNN. • Enhanced dielectric temperature stability attributed to change of PNRs size. - Abstract: The structure, morphology and dielectric properties of the oxygen annealed (O{sub 2}-annealed) and untreated (as-prepared) 0.85(K{sub 0.5}Na{sub 0.5}) NbO{sub 3}-0·15SrZrO{sub 3} (KNN-15SZ) ceramics were investigated. The temperature dependence of dielectric permittivity shows two diffuse dielectric peaks associated with duplex core-shell structure, leading to relatively stable dielectric permittivity in a wide temperature range. Interestingly, the O{sub 2}-annealed sample with the operating temperature range of −104 °C–157 °C could meet the EIA X8R specification, which is superior to the as-prepared one (−98 °C–130 °C) for the EIA X7R specification. Furthermore, the dielectric contribution from cores and shells of both samples was divided by the Lorentz fitting. The relation between relaxation frequency and temperature of both samples obeyed the Vogel-Fulcher law. This finding could pave a possible way to modify dielectric temperature stability for multilayer ceramic chip capacitors applications.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

A new method for achieving enhanced dielectric response over a wide temperature range

We report a novel approach for achieving high dielectric response over a wide temperature range. In this approach, multilayer ceramic heterostructures with constituent compositions having strategically tuned Curie points (TC) were designed and integrated with varying electrical connectivity. Interestingly, these multilayer structures exhibited different dielectric behavior in series and parallel configuration due to variations in electrical boundary conditions resulting in the differences in the strength of the electrostatic coupling. The results are explained using nonlinear thermodynamic model taking into account electrostatic interlayer interaction. We believe that present work will have huge significance in design of high performance ceramic capacitors.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

In situ TEM measurement of electrical properties of individual BaTiO 3 nanocubes

We report on the measurement of the electrical properties of individual pristine and doped BaTiO 3 nanocubes by using in situ transmission electron microscopy with a two-electrode configuration. The dimensions of the nanocubes tested are between 10 and 20 nm, which rendered their in situ electrical characterization challenging. We characterized 4%Cr and 5%La (atomic percentage) doped BaTiO 3 nanocubes and compared them with the properties of pristine BaTiO3 nanocubes synthesized by the same solvothermal method. We found that the resistance of all three types of nanocubes when displayed in log-scale shows a nearly linear dependence on the applied electric field (R2 ≥ 0.95) over a wide range of electric fields (50–900 kV/cm). Compared with pristine BaTiO 3 nanocubes, the resistance of both 4%Cr and 5%La doped nanocubes showed reduced variation rates with respect to the electric field, with 5%La doping, demonstrating a better reduction in the variation rate. By developing techniques capable of evaluating the properties of individual BaTiO 3 nanocubes, we expect that our work to open the door to the use of BaTiO 3 nanomaterials in the design of future multilayer ceramic capacitors with improved volumetric efficiency and ferroelectrics-enabled nanodevices with advanced functionality.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Correcting impedance measurements for background parasitics to characterize circuit components in cryogenic environments

Predictable circuit response is a critical prerequisite for accurate electronic measurements. Here, we describe a powerful yet straightforward experimental method and analysis model that utilizes an affordable LCR meter in conjunction with an in situ parasitic-impedance background-correction procedure to measure the temperature-dependent impedance (magnitude and phase) of up to ten individual passive circuit elements in a single cryostat run. We show how the model unambiguously identified a ∼20× drop in capacitance for 22 μF 5XR multilayer ceramic capacitors cooled from 300 K to 360 mK in an environment with a parasitic capacitance of ∼300 pF. The same experimental procedure, based on a simple two-wire measurement, was also used to measure 10 and 22 pF thin-film capacitors and 100 MΩ thick-film resistors. The results showed that the resistor values increased by up to an order of magnitude when the devices were cooled from 300 K to 360 mK. Most importantly, we showed that the simple data-acquisition method, coupled with our analysis model, enabled the measurement of component parasitics, and effectively extended the accuracy of a commercial LCR meter beyond its manufacturer-guaranteed values for a wide range of measurement frequencies. We also showed that, in the current configuration, our simple approach is limited to a capacitance accuracy of ∼10 pF.

Carpenter, R. J. [Santa Clara Univ., Santa Clara, ↗

Bragg Coherent Imaging of Fluctuating Domains

This review presents two examples of domain dynamics in crystalline solid state samples which were imaged recently with synchrotron X-rays by Bragg Coherent Diffraction methods. Domains are associated with sub-atomic phase shifts in the structure which are revealed by the strong phase contrast associated with Bragg diffraction. At low temperatures, La2-xSrxNiO4 has an antiferromagnetic spin-ordered phase with correlation lengths of 200 nm; its domains are imaged with magnetic Bragg Ptychography to visualize their slow fluctuations. Hydrothermally synthesized nanocrystalline BaTiO3 is found to be made up of ~50 nm domains using Bragg Coherent Diffraction Imaging; electric field induced movement of its internal domain walls is a likely explanation of the nano-material's anomalously large dielectric constant, which is used in the manufacture of multilayer ceramic capacitors

77 NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY↗

Nucleation and growth of polar clusters with in-phase tilts into a long-range ferroelectric matrix in a sodium niobate based complex relaxor

In this study, we have investigated the temperature dependence of atomic ordering at multiple length scales in a lead-free sodium niobate-based relaxor, i.e., 0.75 NaNbO 3 -0.25 Ba 0.9⁢ Ca 0.1⁢ TiO 3 (NN-25BCT) via synchrotron x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and pair distribution function analysis. High-resolution synchrotron x-ray powder diffraction (SXRD) measurements reveal a ferroelectric phase transition in the relaxor ferroelectric NN-25BCT below the Vogel-Fulcher freezing temperature (𝑇 VF ≈ 270 K). In addition, SXRD analysis demonstrates the competition between in-phase octahedral tilting and ferroelectric order at the long-range scale using mode crystallography. On the other hand, Raman spectroscopic analysis provides evidence of polar ordering for 𝑇 > 𝑇 VF (with tetragonal symmetry) persisting up to the Burns temperature (𝑇 B ). Furthermore, pair distribution function (PDF) analysis reveals the presence of a polar antiferrodistortive tetragonal phase with 𝑃⁢4⁢𝑏𝑚 space group at short ranges throughout the studied temperatures (i.e., 110 K ≤ 𝑇 ≤500 K), irrespective of nonpolar long-range ordering above 𝑇 VF . Therefore, our measurements provide direct evidence for the presence of polar ordering at short ranges and their gradual transformation into long-range polar ordering using an integrated multiscale structural analysis. In conclusion, as a result of a transition from relaxor to a ferroelectric phase in the vicinity of room temperature, NN-25BCT can be exploited for applications in pyroelectric detectors, electrocaloric devices, and multilayered ceramic capacitors.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Soliton production with nonlinear homogeneous lines

Low- and high-voltage Soliton waves were produced and used to demonstrate collision and compression using diode-based nonlinear transmission lines. Experiments demonstrate soliton addition and compression using homogeneous nonlinear lines. We built the nonlinear lines using commercially available diodes. These diodes are chosen after their capacitance versus voltage dependence is used in a model and the line design characteristics are calculated and simulated. Nonlinear ceramic capacitors are then used to demonstrate high-voltage pulse amplification and compression. The line is designed such that a simple capacitor discharge, input signal, develops soliton trains in as few as 12 stages. We also demonstrated output voltages in excess of 40 kV using Y5V-based commercial capacitors. The results show some key features that determine efficient production of trains of solitons in the kilovolt range.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

High power density dc-to-dc converters for aerospace applications

Three dc-to-dc converter topologies aimed at high-power high-frequency applications are introduced. Major system parasitics, namely, the leakage inductance of the transformer and the device output capacitance are efficiently utilized. Of the three circuits, the single-phase and three-phase versions of the dual active bridge topology demonstrate minimal stresses, better utilization of the transformer, bidirectional, and buck-boost modes of operation. All circuits operate at a constant switching frequency, thus simplifying design of the reactive elements. The power transfer characteristics and soft-switching regions on the Vout-Iout plane are identified. Two coaxial transformers with different cross-sections were built for a rating of 50 kVA. Based on the single-phase dual active bridge topology, a 50 kW, 50 kHz converter operating at an input voltage of 200 Vdc and an output voltage of 1600 Vdc was fabricated. Characteristics of current-fed output make the dual active bridge topologies amenable to paralleling and hence extension to megawatt power levels. Projections to a 1 MW system operating from a 500 Vdc input, at an output voltage of 10 kVdc and a switching frequency of 50 kHz, using MOS-controlled thyristors, coaxially wound transformers operating at three times the present current density with cooling, and multilayer ceramic capacitors, suggests an overall power density of 0.075 to 0.08 kg/kW and an overall efficiency of 96 percent.

Divan, Deepakraj M.↗

Space Station Freedom power supply commonality via modular design

At mature operations, Space Station Freedom will need more than 2000 power supplies to feed housekeeping and user loads. Advanced technology power supplies from 20 to 250 W have been hybridized for terrestrial, aerospace, and industry applications in compact, efficient, reliable, lightweight packages compatible with electromagnetic interference requirements. The use of these hybridized packages as modules, either singly or in parallel, to satisfy the wide range of user power supply needs for all elements of the station is proposed. Proposed characteristics for the power supplies include common mechanical packaging, digital control, self-protection, high efficiency at full and partial loads, synchronization capability to reduce electromagnetic interference, redundancy, and soft-start capability. The inherent reliability is improved compared with conventional discrete component power supplies because the hybrid circuits use high-reliability components such as ceramic capacitors. Reliability is further improved over conventional supplies because the hybrid packages, which may be treated as a single part, reduce the parts count in the power supply.

Krauthamer, S.↗

Wide-Range Temperature Sensors with High-Level Pulse Train Output

Two types of temperature sensors have been developed for wide-range temperature applications. The two sensors measure temperature in the range of -190 to +200 C and utilize a thin-film platinum RTD (resistance temperature detector) as the temperature-sensing element. Other parts used in the fabrication of these sensors include NPO (negative-positive- zero) type ceramic capacitors for timing, thermally-stable film or wirewound resistors, and high-temperature circuit boards and solder. The first type of temperature sensor is a relaxation oscillator circuit using an SOI (silicon-on-insulator) operational amplifier as a comparator. The output is a pulse train with a period that is roughly proportional to the temperature being measured. The voltage level of the pulse train is high-level, for example 10 V. The high-level output makes the sensor less sensitive to noise or electromagnetic interference. The output can be read by a frequency or period meter and then converted into a temperature reading. The second type of temperature sensor is made up of various types of multivibrator circuits using an SOI type 555 timer and the passive components mentioned above. Three configurations have been developed that were based on the technique of charging and discharging a capacitor through a resistive element to create a train of pulses governed by the capacitor-resistor time constant. Both types of sensors, which operated successfully over the wide temperature range, have potential use in extreme temperature environments including jet engines and space exploration missions.

Hammoud, Ahmad↗

Humidity Steady State Low Voltage Testing of MLCCs (Based on NESC Technical Assessment Report)

Review of the low voltage reduced Insulation Resistance (IR) failure phenomenon in Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs)and NASA approaches to contend with this risk. 1. Analyze published materials on root cause mechanisms. 2. Investigate suitability of current test methods to assess MLCC lots for susceptibility. 3. Review current NASA parts selection and application guidelines in consideration of benefits vs. disadvantages.

Sampson, Mike↗

Select Electronic Parts Operation at Extreme Low Temperature

The purpose of the study presented in this paper is to extend the test period of a selected set of electronics parts at cryogenic condition to dwell period of about 24 hours to demonstrate extreme cold operational capability of these components. The parts tested are tantalum polymer, BX and P90 type ceramic capacitors, thick film resistors, analog multiplexers, a digital inverter, and a D-flip-flop. These parts were tested to assist identifying candidate components that can be used for development of a cold capable telemetry board. There are several past investigations that have shown that COTS (commercial-off-the-shelf) capacitors and resistors tested at cryogenic temperatures and frequencies up to 10MHz did not exhibit significant changes in capacitance and resistance values. Also, there are several test results for active parts. These past tests collected measurements during a temperature sweep from room temperature down to cryogenic temperature with very short dwell time at cryogenic temperature, and back to room temperature. This study extends the operational dwell time to at least 24 hours and returning to room temperature operation without significant degradation in performance, thus, demonstrating the potential for longer dwell time in actual operation in these extreme cold temperatures and a method for identifying the cold operability.

Ashtijou, Mohammad↗

Shapeable short circuit resistant capacitor

A ceramic short circuit resistant capacitor that is bendable and/or shapeable to provide a multiple layer capacitor that is extremely compact and amenable to desirable geometries. The capacitor that exhibits a benign failure mode in which a multitude of discrete failure events result in a gradual loss of capacitance. Each event is a localized event in which localized heating causes an adjacent portion of one or both of the electrodes to vaporize, physically cleaning away electrode material from the failure site. A first metal electrode, a second metal electrode, and a ceramic dielectric layer between the electrodes are thin enough to be formed in a serpentine-arrangement with gaps between the first electrode and the second electrode that allow venting of vaporized electrode material in the event of a benign failure.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION↗

Antiferroelectric Ceramics for Energy–Efficient Capacitors by Theory–Guided Discovery

Antiferroelectric ceramics, via the electric-field-induced antiferroelectric (AFE)–ferroelectric (FE) phase transitions, show great promise for high-energy-density capacitors. Yet, currently, only 70–80% energy release is found during a charge–discharge cycle. Here, for PbZrO 3 -based oxides, geometric nonlinear theory of martensitic phase transitions is applied (first used to guide supercompatible shape-memory alloys) to predict the reversibility of the AFE–FE transition by using density-functional theory to assess AFE/FE interfacial lattice-mismatch strain that assures ultralow electric hysteresis and extended fatigue lifetime. A good correlation of mismatch strain with electric hysteresis, hence, with energy efficiency of AFE capacitors is observed. Here, guided by theory, high-throughput material search is conducted and AFE compositions with a near-perfect charge–discharge energy efficiency (98.2%), i.e., near-zero hysteresis are discovered. And the fatigue life of the capacitor reaches 79.5 million charge–discharge cycles, a factor of 80 enhancement over AFE ceramics with large electric hysteresis.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗