A resistivity gradient actuator based on lead zirconate titanate ceramics w
as successfully developed and the bending deflections up to 140 mu m were o
btained. The actuator material was a matrix of PZT ceramic into which smoot
h gradient of piezoelectric activity was introduced. The application of an
electric field then causes the actuator to bend due to differential strains
induced by the piezoelectric effect. The resistivity gradient of the actua
tor was achieved by doping PZT with suitable donor and acceptor dopants. PZ
T powder was modified and synthesized by using two stage powder fabrication
method. The actuator was fabricated by uniaxial pressing followed by isost
atic pressing with two layers of different resistivities.