electrostriction

electrostriction [i¦lek·trō′strik·shən]

(mechanics)

A form of elastic deformation of a dielectric induced by an electric field, associated with those components of strain which are independent of reversal of field direction, in contrast to the piezoelectric effect. Also known as electrostrictive strain.

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Electrostriction

A form of elastic deformation of a dielectric induced by an electric field; specifically, the term applies to those components of strain which are independent of reversal of the field direction. Electrostriction is a property of all dielectrics and is thus distinguished from the converse piezoelectric effect, a field-induced strain which changes sign upon field reversal and which occurs only in piezoelectric materials. See Dielectric materials, Piezoelectricity

The electrostrictive effect in certain ceramics is employed for commercial purposes in electromechanical transducers for sonic and ultrasonic applications.