Department or Program

Chemistry

Abstract

The effort to enhance our understanding of polar behavior in crystalline materials is at the forefront of research in many technologically-driven fields. One specific property which makes many materials so appealing in tech-related fields is ferroelectricity. Re sulting from ordered noncentrosymmetric lattice distortions and characterized by spon taneous reversible electric polarization, this behavior has captivated researchers given its vast applications. Significant research has been conducted on distortion-driven polarity in the perovskite lattice, and factors contributing to such behavior are fairly well under stood. However, studies focused on distortion-induced polarity in other lattice types have not been studied as extensively. The pyrochlore structure presents intriguing phenomena. Easy to prepare and accommodating of chemical substitution, the pyrochlore is an excel lent candidate for the investigation of structural factors contributing to ferroelectricity. By utilizing neutron diffraction, synchrotron total scattering, and first principles calculations, this work investigates the role of vacancies on polarity in a series of stoichiometrically var ied lead niobate pyrochlores. Procuring an understanding of polar behavior in this system could pave the way for novel ferroelectric pyrochlores.

Level of Access

Open Access

First Advisor

Laurita, Geneva

Date of Graduation

5-2021

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Number of Pages

91

Components of Thesis

1 pdf file

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