The temperature at which PZT is polarized.

The temperature at which PZT is polarized.

• A. Ambient
• B. Boiling
• C. Curie point
• D. Curie temperature

Answer: (D)

PZT’s polarization is tied to its Curie temperature. Below this temperature, PZT is ferroelectric and its domains can be oriented by an electric field (poling). As you heat toward the Curie temperature, the material transitions to a paraelectric state and loses spontaneous polarization; above that temperature the polarized state cannot be maintained. Therefore, the temperature associated with polarizing PZT is the Curie temperature. Curie point is the same concept, just a synonymous term, but Curie temperature is the standard phrasing here. Ambient temperature or boiling point don’t relate to the ferroelectric transition.

PZT’s polarization is tied to its Curie temperature. Below this temperature, PZT is ferroelectric and its domains can be oriented by an electric field (poling). As you heat toward the Curie temperature, the material transitions to a paraelectric state and loses spontaneous polarization; above that temperature the polarized state cannot be maintained. Therefore, the temperature associated with polarizing PZT is the Curie temperature. Curie point is the same concept, just a synonymous term, but Curie temperature is the standard phrasing here. Ambient temperature or boiling point don’t relate to the ferroelectric transition.