Enhanced energy storage performance in BaZrxTi1- xO3lead-free ferroelectrics near phase transitions

J Phys Condens Matter. 2024 Nov 21;37(6). doi: 10.1088/1361-648X/ad9211.

Abstract

The present study explores the energy storage properties of BaZrxTi1-xO3through phase-field modeling, focusing on the impact of composition and temperature on energy storage performance. The obtained results reveal a variety of polarization phases and configurations based on Zr compositions and temperatures. A detailed phase diagram for temperature-composition of BaZrxTi1-xO3is established, closely aligning with experimental measurements. Variations in Zr content and temperature have a significant impact on the polarization-electric field (P - E) response, influencing the energy storage properties. Calculations of energy storage properties are derived from theP - Eresponse. In addition, a thorough diagram is developed to illustrate the discharge energy density of BaZrxTi1-xO3as a function of temperature and composition. Notably, high discharge energy density is achievable near the Curie temperature, corresponding to the transition from ferroelectric to paraelectric phase. Furthermore, the present study emphasizes the importance of the disparity between maximum and remanent polarization, as well as the electric field-dependent effective permittivity, in determining the discharge energy density.

Keywords: energy storage property; lead-free ferroelectric; low electric field; phase transition; phase-field model.