This U.S.-Slovene research project involving Peter Davies of the University of Pennsylvania and Danilo Suvorov of the Josef Stefan Institute, University of Ljubljana, examines a set of microwave dielectric ceramics. Collaborative efforts will feature a range of steps including preparation, crystal chemistry and structure of new powder compositions as well as processing and dielectric characterization of the ceramic materials. Results should produce a detailed analysis of the microwave response for candidate oxides that include systems with pyrochlore and perovskite related crystal structures. The intent is to 1) improve our understanding of the critical chemical and structural requirements for a successful ceramic resonator and 2) identify new areas for microwave materials development where potential exists for creating novel ceramics with higher dielectric constants and lower dielectric losses. If successful, such materials may have applicability in microwave-based communication technologies.
This materials research project fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling leading experts in the United States and Central Europe to combine complementary talents and pool research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence. ***
