Piezoceramic thick films - technology and applications. State of the art in Europe

In the light of the recent development trend within new piezoelectric and pyroelectric devices towards smaller size, higher resonant frequencies and preferably battery-driven operation, electroceramic thick films have become interesting. Various technologies can be used to manufacture thick films such as screen-printing, tape casting and composite spin coating. The paper presents results of the recent work carried out by several European groups. The common problems, such as choice of a substrate and the necessary modification of the powder, electrodes and their influence on film properties are discussed. Examples of the obtained results are given. Some thick film applications are demonstrated. In addition, an example of a self-supported thick film transducer is included. The planned future work is described.