Polar Dielectrics and Their Applications

Polar Dielectrics and Their Applications provides a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating world of polar materials, particularly those exhibiting spontaneous polarization. The book delves into the unique properties and behaviors of polar dielectrics, such as piezoelectricity, ferroelectricity, and pyroelectricity, while highlighting their relevance in both theoretical studies and practical applications. A central theme is the role of symmetry and inherent structural asymmetries within polar materials that give rise to their distinctive characteristics. With careful attention to the history and evolution of the field, the book offers insights into the scientific progress made since Valasek's discovery of ferroelectricity in 1921 and discusses the surge in research and technological advancements in recent decades. Organized into two main parts, the text begins with an in-depth examination of the fundamental properties and behaviors of polar materials, including their electrical, optical, thermal, and mechanical attributes. Key concepts like ferroelectric hysteresis, domain dynamics, and the role of lattice vibrations in cooperative transitions are thoroughly explored. The second part shifts focus to real-world applications, detailing the use of polar materials in memory devices, displays, transducers, and capacitors, as well as emerging technologies like optical holography and liquid crystals. Designed for a diverse audience of scientists, engineers, and students, the book balances foundational principles with cutting-edge developments, making it an essential resource for understanding and leveraging the remarkable capabilities of polar dielectrics. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1979.