Design of inherent zero Poisson's ratio textured piezoelectric ceramics via partial auxetic effect

Materials with unusual Poisson's ratios, have attracted significant attention due to the fundamental physics and innovative applications in tailoring piezoelectric and mechanical properties. Here, we present a breakthrough in achieving near-zero Poisson's ratio in textured piezoelectric ceramics through the auxetic effect via controlled grain orientation and polarization. Theoretical analysis and phase field simulation reveal that the mechanism of zero Poisson's ratio originates from the cancellation of opposing Poisson's ratio contributions between grains, and this design is universal. To validate this mechanism, Laser Doppler Vibrometer testing experimentally demonstrates the unique deformation configuration of the near-zero Poisson's ratio. Furthermore, a hydrophone transducer prototype utilizing this material exhibits an intrinsic pure thickness vibration mode, significantly enhancing the sensitivity by up to 10 dB. By exploiting the intrinsic material properties, this work establishes important design strategies for novel piezoelectric materials, with broad implications for sensors, transducers, energy harvesting systems, and phased array technologies.