ZINC OXIDE CERAMIC VARISTORS

Abstract

According to embodiments of the invention, ceramic varistor compositions are provided that include zinc oxide (ZnO). In particular, the ceramic varistor compositions of the invention may include dopants including an alkali metal compound, an alkaline earth compound, a boron oxide, an aluminum oxide, or a combination thereof. The ceramic varistor compositions may also include other metal oxides. According to embodiments of the invention, ceramic varistor materials formed by sintering a ceramic varistor composition according to an embodiment of the invention are also provided. Varistors formed from these ceramic materials and methods for making these materials are also provided.