Piezoceramics & Piezo Technology
How is it possible to convert mechanical energy into electrical signals precisely and in real time? Piezoceramics from CeramTec make this possible. They form the heart of modern sensors and actuators in areas such as medical equipment, the automotive industry, energy supply and industrial manufacturing. This is made possible by the piezoelectric effect, i.e. the ability of certain ceramic materials to generate electrical voltage under mechanical stress and vice versa. Whether for ultrasound diagnostics, smart metering or leak detection, our piezoelectric materials enable reliable and high-precision solutions.
CeramTec at COMPAMED 2026
From November 16 to 19, 2026, visit us at Stand L31 in Hall 8B to discover our solutions for demanding medical equipment applications. Key areas of focus include structural ceramics, lead-free piezoceramics, ultrasound technologies, additive manufacturing, and hermetic sealing solutions.
Lead-free Piezoceramics
We create added value for manufacturers of industrial and medical products with customised solutions that represent a sensible alternative to lead-containing materials. Our lead-free ceramic components based on BNT-BT can be manufactured in various shapes and geometries - depending on your requirements, e.g. as sensors or transducers for flow meters or medical applications.
We are your Partner for Piezoceramic Solutions
Given this broad diversity of applications, it is recommended to discuss with CeramTec´s experts at the development stage of a new product or system. In dialogue with your company‘s experts, CeramTec can help to specify application conditions, requirement criteria and design prerequisites, and to propose costeffective solutions.
Advanced manufacturing methods enable CeramTec to produce piezoceramic components of unsurpassed quality in large volume. Our companywide quality management system assures that its products and services will be fully in line with customer‘s expectations.
Piezoceramics Explained
In this video, we provide an insight into the operating principle and the wide range of applications of piezoceramics at CeramTec. Using specific examples, we show how piezoceramic solutions support engine management in cars, regulation in air-source heat pumps and the stabilization of solar panels on satellites.
RoHS Directive
RoHS: Directive on the Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment.
This directive describes the avoidance of hazardous or harmful substances in electrical or electronic equipment. CeramTec's Multifunctional Ceramics Division sells ceramic components and is therefore not directly affected by this directive - but our customers may be. The main component of piezoceramic components are lead compounds such as lead zirconate and lead titanate. Unfortunately, this is unavoidable. This is also the view of the European Commission. This is why, for example, lead compounds in ceramic compounds are exempt from the ban in the "End-of-Life Vehicle Regulation".
Despite this, or precisely because of this, we want to support our customers in this respect: CeramTec offers to take back piezoceramic components and to dispose of them in an environmentally friendly way or to recycle them. The prerequisite is that the piezoceramics are delivered without foreign components (i.e. not in the housing or cast in). If you are interested in recycling, please contact us. We will be happy to make you an offer.
Another step towards RoHS conformity is the development of the lead-free piezoceramic special material SONOX® P1 LF by CeramTec.
FAQ - CeramTec Piezo Technology
What are piezoceramics, and how are they used in sensors and transducers?
Piezoceramics convert forces, pressures, and accelerations into electrical signals for sensors and transform electrical voltages into vibrations or deformations for sound and ultrasonic transducers. They leverage the direct and inverse piezoelectric effects, making them versatile for applications in automotive, industrial, and medical fields.
Which industries benefit from CeramTec's piezoceramic solutions?
CeramTec's piezoceramics are utilized in automotive (e.g., sensors), industrial (e.g., flow and level measurement), energy (e.g., smart meters), and medical technology.
What are the advantages of CeramTec's lead-free piezoceramics?
CeramTec offers sustainable, lead-free piezoceramic solutions based on BNT-BT, providing a versatile, eco-friendly alternative to lead-based materials. These are tailored for medical and industrial applications, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
Can CeramTec customize piezoceramic solutions for specific applications?
Yes, CeramTec collaborates with customers during the development phase to define operating conditions, requirements, and design constraints. This results in tailored, cost-effective piezoceramic solutions for unique system needs.
What piezoelectric materials are offered by CeramTec?
CeramTec manufactures a range of high-performance PZT piezoceramics. We also offer a range of lead-free piezoceramic BNT-BT.