Half-Heusler semiconductors as piezoelectrics

Phys Rev Lett. 2012 Jul 20;109(3):037602. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.037602. Epub 2012 Jul 18.

Abstract

We use a first-principles rational-design approach to demonstrate the potential of semiconducting half-Heusler compounds as a previously unrecognized class of piezoelectric materials. We perform a high-throughput scan of a large number of compounds, testing for insulating character and calculating structural, dielectric, and piezoelectric properties. Our results provide guidance for the experimental realization and characterization of high-performance materials in this class that may be suitable for practical applications.