Synthesis and Characterization of Lead Zirconate Titanate Fibers Prepared by the Sol–Gel Method: The Role of the Acid

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) fibers are prepared by the sol–gel method using acetic acid and methacrylic acid to control the pH of the PZT precursor sol. The chemical evolution of the precursors, the thermal and crystallization behavior of the PZT gel fibers, and the microstructure of the samples with and without acid addition are analyzed and compared. It is observed that the properties of the fibers are improved when acids are used; particularly longer PZT ceramic fibers (4–5 cm) are obtained after heat treatment and a single perovskite phase is obtained at 550°C when using methacrylic acid. The mechanisms of the acid effect on the strengthening and crystallization of PZT fibers are discussed.