Dielectrics is becoming increasingly important due to the rapid developments in electronics, optoelectronics, photonics and nanotechnology. In the past two decades, research on advanced dielectric materials and related applications has undergone an accelerated growth, due in larger part to the discovery of the superior piezoelectric properties in relaxor single crystals, the development of the lead-free piezoelectric/ferroelectric materials and the renaissance of the multiferroics.This book contains 9 feature articles which, together, provide a comprehensive account on the current state of advanced dielectrics and related phenomena. The first two articles present fundamental knowledge related to the characterization of ferroelectric hysteresis, which is the most widely used method to learn the ferroelectricity experimentally. The latest research progress in relaxor ferroelectric is given in the next two articles. The last five articles are dedicated to the multi-functionality of advanced dielectrics, with emphasis on multiferroic magnetoelectric composites, lead-free piezoceramics, pyroelectric/electrocaloric materials, polymer-based dielectrics, and flexible nanodielectrics.

Progress in Ceramic Science

Physics of Dielectrics for the Engineer is a systematic attempt to clarify and correlate advanced concepts underlying the physics of dielectrics. It reviews the basics of electrostatics, the different models for the polarizability of atoms and molecules, and the macroscopic permittivity. It also discusses the behavior of matter in an alternating field in relation to complex permittivity, the interactions between field and matter, dissipative effects under high electric fields, the wide-gap semiconductor model, the types of charge carriers, and the main disruptive processes. Organized into three parts encompassing 12 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the physical concepts involved in the behavior of insulating materials subjected to high electric fields. It then explores the potential of a group of charges, and dipoles induced in an applied field. The book explains statistical theories of dipole orientation in an applied field and theories relating molecular and macroscopic quantities. The propagation of an electromagnetic wave, dipole relaxation of defects in crystal lattices, and space-charge polarization and relaxation are also discussed. The book explains the uni-dimensional polar lattice, intrinsic and impurity conduction in wide-gap semiconductors, thermal runaway, and collision breakdown. Many problems with corresponding solutions are included to assist the reader. This book will benefit electrical engineers, as well as electrical engineering students, scientists, and technicians.