Abstract: A flexible, composite, acoustical energy transducer made from ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and/or electrostrictive materials in combination with a polymer, such as silicone or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVF.sub.2), preferably having electroelastic properties. The materials are formed into platelets or wafers which have electrodes on their facial surfaces and are arranged within the polymer with each wafer in the same x-y plane such that their polarizations are in the same direction and perpendicular to the x-y plane. The wafers are aligned in directed rows, spaced from each other and are totally encased within the polymer. Thin conductive sheet or foil electrodes are secured to the upper and lower faces of the polymer and a conductive material between each wafer and the foil electrically connects the wafers to the foil electrodes. To protect the electrodes and prevent electrical shorting, a rubber coating or any other suitable insulator may be applied to the outside of the electrodes.

Abstract: Strengthened and densified ceramic bodies are produced by hot pressing lead itanate powder into a lead titanate ceramic at a pressure from 1000 to 5000 psi and at a temperature from 700 to 1100.degree. C if the atmosphere is reducing or from 700 to 1200.degree. C if the atmosphere is oxidizing and by annealing the lead titanate ceramic at a temperature from 600 to 1100.degree. C in an oxidizing atmosphere for at least four hours.

Abstract: A method for strengthening lead zirconate-lead titanate ceramic transducers hich comprises heating the transducer at a temperature from 900.degree. C to 1000.degree. C in a nonreducing atmosphere containing at least 20 volume percent of oxygen for at least one hour.