Influence of sample thickness on the performance of photostrictive ceramics

Ferroelectric materials with high photovoltaic properties are of interest for new optical devices such as photostrictive ceramic actuators. However, fabrication of these devices requires development of materials exhibiting high photovoltage and photocurrent. In pursuit of these high performance photostrictive materials, the present research examines the influence of illumination intensity, degree of polarization, and sample thickness on the photostrictive response of WO₃ doped lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate (Pb, La)(Zr, Ti)O₃ ceramics prepared by oxide mixing process. A model for calculating the optimum sample thickness for maximum photostrictive response is proposed. This model agrees well with experimental results, and should be useful in designing photostrictive devices.