Lead-free electrostrictive/ piezoelectric ceramics enable more eco-friendly electronic components

https://phys.org/news/2024-08-nontoxic-ceramic-based-electronic-components.html

"deformed when exposed to electric field, undergoing strains/ stresses producing tiny, precise movements (electrostrictors/ piezoelectrics)... cerium oxide laced with about 10% zirconium oxide: cheap/ inert/ simple manufacture... same deformation while having much lower dielectric constant, more energy efficient... zirconium, with 4 electrons in its outer orbit, caused electrostriction to shoot up about 200X, comparable to existing lead-containing components"