The influence of heat-treatment on the current-voltage behavior of the ZnO-Bi₂O₃ based varistors

The post-sintering heat treatment on the current-voltage behavior of the ZnO-Bi₂O₃ based varistors is reported. It is suggested that only phase transition of the Bi₂O₃ is not alone responsible for the resulting electrical performance by these devices. The ambient condition influences the performance parameters. Thus, incorporating the role of oxygen and zinc interstitial in the total device during the post-sintering heat-treatment is accounted as responsible parameters for the ultimate performance. Two recipes are used in demonstrating the effect of heat-treatment on the functional behavior of the devices.