BaBiO2.77 as a promoter of the varistor property in zinc oxide ceramics

Metal oxide varistors typically are made by bulk ceramic technology. The homogeneity of ceramics and the grain interface profile are of primary concern in varistor design and processing. The nonohmic property in the ZnO varistor is attributed to the Bi enrichment at ZnO grain boundaries and Bi-rich intergranular layer. The Bi susceptibility for formation of agglomerates and volatilization during varistor sintering is a problem. To overcome it, we decided to pre-react Bi2O3 with Ba and add the varistor mixture with BaBiO2.77 instead of Bi2O3. As it appeared, BaBiO2.77 addition benefits varistor ceramics in many ways. Varistors have better electrical properties. The origin of nonohmic behaviour takes place at a lower temperature, 1100 instead of 1250°C. The Bi phase distribution in the ceramics is homogenous. Also, the volume of not contributing with break-down voltage intergranular phase is restrained. Taking into account that due to it the amount of additives decrease and that at lower sintering temperature, less volatile Bi is liberated to ambient, BaBiO2.77 addition benefits varistors not only technologically but also from the point of view of economics and environment protection.