Preparation of solid and hollow piezoelectric ceramic fibers and springs using a novel alginate gelation method

A novel ceramic fiber processing method by gelation of Na-alginate, a natural innoxious polymer, is reported. The ion exchange reaction between Na and Ca, and associated gelation process is utilized to fabricate lead zirconate titanate piezoelectric ceramic fibers. Electrical measurements taken from pellets prepared from reprocessed slurry and fibers indicate a change in the properties due to the Na and Ca ion content of the slurry. However, the dielectric constant and piezoelectric charge coefficient values prove that this is a viable process to produce piezoelectric ceramic fibers. Electrical properties of piezocomposites prepared from the fibers were presented.