Disorder Enables Extreme Sensitivity in Piezoelectric Materials
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 - 14:29
in Physics & Chemistry
A research team working at the National Institute of Standards and Technology has found an explanation for the extreme sensitivity to mechanical pressure or voltage of a special class of solid materials called relaxors. The ability to control and tailor this sensitivity would allow industry to enhance a range of devices used in medical ultrasound imaging, loudspeakers, sonar and computer hard drives.