Grinding methods effects on the synthesis of Potassium-Sodium Niobate powders by oxide mixing

Piezoelectric materials are widely used in electronic devices and, traditionally, various lead-based materials have been implemented in such applications. However, because of the damage caused by lead, other materials with similar characteristics that do not cause a negative impact on human health and the environment have been developed. A material with those characteristics is potassium-sodium niobite K0.5Na0.5 Nbo3. In this study, we investigate the thermogravimetric, structural, and microstructural properties of powders of such system obtained through oxide mixing with the aim of establishing the effect and efficiency of grinding (using a horizontal and a planetary ball mill grinder) on the production of the final material. It was determined that horizontal grinding and calcination at 900°C create the optimal conditions for obtaining K0.5Na0.5 Nbo3 powders, by oxide mixing, with the adequate structure and microstructure to continue the densification and/or doping processes.