Recent advancements in piezoelectric technology have the potential to transform the construction industry, particularly through the development of more efficient and compact multilayer actuators (MLAs). A groundbreaking study published in the *Journal of Materiomics* reveals a novel approach to enhancing the performance of BaTiO3-based MLAs by addressing two critical challenges: output strain and hysteresis.
Lead author Yingchun Liu from the Functional Materials and Acoustooptic Instruments Institute at Harbin Institute of Technology has spearheaded this research, which employs a unique combination of crystallographic texturing and domain engineering. These techniques aim to improve the piezoelectric properties of the materials while simultaneously minimizing strain hysteresis, a factor that significantly affects the accuracy of positioning systems in industrial applications.
“By achieving a texture degree of around 95%, we were able to produce ceramic layers that exhibited a remarkable displacement of 196 nm at just 200 volts,” Liu explained. This performance is approximately 2.4 times greater than that of randomly oriented ceramics, marking a significant leap forward in actuator technology. The study highlights how the textured BCTZS MLAs maintain ultra-low strain hysteresis, with values less than 9%, which is crucial for applications requiring high precision.
The implications of this research extend far beyond laboratory settings. In construction, the ability to control positioning with greater accuracy and reliability can lead to advancements in automation and robotics, enhancing the efficiency of various processes, from building automation systems to smart infrastructure. With the construction sector increasingly leaning towards automation, these developments could enable more sophisticated control systems in machinery and equipment, reducing downtime and improving overall productivity.
Moreover, the findings suggest that the high texture degree and specific domain configurations in the textured grains allow for easier domain switchings. This flexibility not only reduces the energy required for domain wall movement but also accommodates clamping stress more effectively. As Liu noted, “This improved flexibility leads to better positioning repeatability, which is vital for the integration of piezoelectric actuators in dynamic environments.”
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the ability to harness advanced piezoelectric materials could pave the way for innovations in smart buildings and infrastructure, where real-time adjustments and precise control are paramount. The research conducted by Liu and his team not only propels the field of material science forward but also sets the stage for a new era of construction technology that prioritizes efficiency and accuracy.
For more information on this research, you can visit the Functional Materials and Acoustooptic Instruments Institute. The study published in the *Journal of Materiomics* underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling complex engineering challenges, ultimately reshaping the landscape of construction technology.
