IMF2017

In the processing of PMN-PT ceramics, as in the case of the well-known lanthanum doped PZT ceramics, the La-doping can promote high densification and homogeneous microstructure, allowing low light scattering by pores and grain boundaries and high optical transmittance from visible to near infrared. This work will present the overcome of processing challenges and the optical/electro-optical characterization of these ferroelectric transparent ceramic systems, particularly when other rare earth ions are added as modifiers. From Kerr and Pockels electrooptical responses over a broad temperature range and X-ray diffraction analysis, as well as from basic rules of structural stability and ion occupancy, we will discuss how the addition of a rare earth ion can reduce the optical transmittance even for pore-free lanthanum doped PZT (or PMN-PT) ceramics.