Piezoceramic Composites: PI Ceramic Expands Offering and Application Range of Piezoelectric Ceramics

Piezoceramic composites in rows, 2-2 arrangement (left) and in individual pins, 1-3 arrangement (right)

The manufacturing technology for piezoceramic composite enables components such as plates, discs, and half-shells, as well as more complex shapes such as smooth-surfaced shafts.

PI Ceramic introduces a new product category: "Piezoceramic Composites". Based on an innovative manufacturing technology, composites embed piezoelectric ceramics in filling polymers, utilizing materials with either high stiffness or highly elastic polymer matrices.

Improved Properties and Enhanced Adaptability
By combining the fundamental functionalities of piezoceramics, such as ultrasonic conversion and actuator technology, with the properties of the filling polymers, this new approach offers enhanced adaptability to application-specific conditions. This includes accommodating complex shapes and providing adjustable acoustical, mechanical, and electrical properties to meet specific requirements.

The new composites present an innovative alternative to traditional all-ceramic components. They not only adapt excellently to specific shapes, but also offer several advantages due to their polymer content. For instance, these composites can effortlessly adjust to environments with varying acoustic impedances. This versatility opens up a broad spectrum of applications, particularly in medical technology for uses like high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) applications and diagnostic imaging. They are also applicable in industrial settings for tasks, such as flow rate metering or non-destructive measurements. Additionally, by minimizing cross contraction and the associated vibration modes, the composites enhance focusability, sensitivity, and resolution.

Various Filling Polymers and Arrangements
To ensure optimal adaptation to specific applications, PI Ceramic provides two distinct types of filling polymers for prototype development: epoxy resins, which are ideal for creating rigid composites, and softer, silicone-free polymers designed for highly flexible composite structures. 

Two configurations are available: ceramic rows (2-2 arrangement) or individual pins (1-3 arrangement).

Electrodes and Contacting
Full-surface electrodes or insulated single electrodes using thin-film technology are offered. Additionally, the composites can be equipped with stranded wires or flexible circuit boards that are bonded to them.