Finite Element Modelling of Impedance Spectroscopy Data in Composite Electroceramics

A time domain finite element numerical study of impedance spectroscopy in composite electroceramics is presented. The simulations take into account the complexity of the realistic three dimensional granular structure including grains and grain boundaries. Two types of finite elements are used to represent the bulk (tetrahedrons) and the grain boundary (prisms) phases, which allow using extremely high bulk to grain boundary ratios. Simulations at various frequencies reveal a strong influence of the grain shape on the impedance data of the sample, both at low and at high frequencies.