Investigation of the Piezoelectric Response of Locally Sourced Quartz Crystals from Nasarawa State

Quartz crystals are natural piezoelectric materials with wide application in frequency control oscillators, pressure sensors, and ultrasonic transducers. Nigeria possesses significant quartz mineral deposits, notably in Nasarawa State in North Central Nigeria, yet the piezoelectric properties of locally sourced quartz have received limited characterisation in the literature. This study investigates the piezoelectric response of quartz crystal samples obtained from mining sites in Nasarawa-Eggon and Akwanga local government areas of Nasarawa State. Crystals are cut into X-cut and AT-cut orientations and electroded with silver paste. The piezoelectric voltage coefficient and the resonant frequency are measured using a precision impedance analyser across the frequency range of 1 kHz to 30 MHz. The piezoelectric charge coefficient d11 is determined by applying controlled uniaxial stress using a precision load cell and measuring the resultant open-circuit voltage. Results indicate d11 values of 2.1 to 2.3 picocoulombs per Newton for locally sourced crystals, comparable to published values for Brazilian and Arkansas quartz. Crystal quality factor values ranging from 40,000 to 85,000 confirm adequate material quality for frequency control applications. The study supports the case for developing a Nigerian quartz crystal processing industry for electronics manufacturing. Keywords: piezoelectric, quartz crystal, Nasarawa State, piezoelectric coefficient, crystal resonance