Nonlinear Ferroelectric Development for L-Band Accelerator Applications

Superconducting structures, such as those used in nuclear physics research, require fast electronic control of the input RF power. The use of nonlinear ferroelectric microwave components represents a promising approach to achieve this control. Applying a bias voltage across a nonlinear ferroelectric material changes its permittivity, an effect that can be used to cause a phase change of a propagating RF signal or to change the resonant frequency of a cavity. The key to this approach is the development of a low-loss highly-tunable ferroelectric material. Thus, this project will develop a new low-loss nonlinear BST(M) ceramic with the required properties. In Phase I, the dielectric properties of test samples will be measured along with the phase composition and microstructure of the material. Dielectric spectra will be obtained in the 300-1000 MHz frequency range. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee In addition to the application to DOE accelerator facilities, the new BST composition should find use in a variety of large-signal commercial and military applications, such as radar antenna elements, electrically-controlled phase shifters, and switching devices