Microwave dielectric properties of low-temperature-fired MgNb(2)O(6) ceramics for LTCC applications

MgNb(2)O(6) ceramics doped with (Li(2)O–MgO–ZnO–B(2)O(3)–SiO(2)) glass were synthesized by the traditional solid phase reaction route. The effects of LMZBS addition on microwave dielectric properties, grain growth, phase composition and morphology of MgNb(2)O(6) ceramics were studied. The SEM results show dense and homogeneous microstructure with grain size of 1.72 μm. Raman spectra and XRD patterns indicate the pure phase MgNb(2)O(6) ceramic. The experimental results show that LMZBS glass can markedly decrease the sintering temperature from 1300 °C to 925 °C. Higher density and lower porosity make ceramics have better dielectric properties. The MgNb(2)O(6) ceramic doped with 1 wt% LMZBS glass sintered at 925 °C for 5 h, possessed excellent dielectric properties: ε(r) = 19.7, Q·f = 67 839 GHz, τ(f) = −41.01 ppm °C(−1). Moreover, the favorable chemical compatibility of the MgNb(2)O(6) ceramic with silver electrodes makes it as promising material for low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) applications.