High energy storage efficiency and excellent recoverable energy storage density realized in 0.65Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.35BaTiO3–SrZr0.5Ti0.5O3 ceramics

Abstract

The application of novel eco-friendly energy storage ceramics with satisfactory properties is becoming more critical and essential due to environmental threats and energy crises. In this investigation, Na_0.5Bi_0.5TiO₃-based bulk ceramics with an improved recoverable energy storage density and efficiency were prepared by adding a paraelectric compound of SrZr_0.5Ti_0.5O₃ (STZ). As a result, a considerable recoverable energy density (W_rec = 4.32 J cm⁻³) associated with enhanced energy efficiency (η = 93.48%) was concurrently obtained in the 0.70BBNT–0.30STZ ceramic at 302 kV cm⁻¹. The hidden mechanisms were unveiled through the first-order reversal curve (FORC) and finite element simulations (COMSOL). In addition, the exceptional temperature stability (25–175 °C) of the 0.70BBNT–0.30STZ ceramic was validated at 200 kV cm⁻¹ and a frequency of 20 Hz. More importantly, a transitory discharge time (t_0.9 = 92 ns) accompanied by a giant power density (P_D = 34.8 MW cm⁻³) was realized in the 0.70BBNT–0.30STZ ceramic at 120 kV cm⁻¹. These excellent performance features indicate that the 0.70BBNT–0.30STZ ceramic has broad prospects in high pulse power systems. This work proposes a novel strategy for a deeper exploration of energy storage ceramics.