A one-dimensional continuum model for ferroelectric ceramics

In this article, we introduce a one-dimensional continuum model for ferroelectric ceramics within a thermodynamical framework. The model consists of a free energy potential, a switching criterion, and a kinetic relation. The free energy potential is given as a function of polarization, strain, and two internal variables – remanent polarization and remanent strain. A polarization switching is described by evolutions of the two internal variables and evolution laws called kinetics are proposed based on the second law of thermodynamics. The predictions of the model are compared with experimental observations. It is suggested to model unpoled domains in the fully poled state for improved model responses.