Enhanced energy storage capabilities in PbHfO3-based antiferroelectric ceramics through delayed phase switching and induced multiphase transitions

Abstract

PbHfO₃-based antiferroelectric ceramics have garnered considerable attention for their promising applications in energy storage due to their unique phase transition characteristics. However, the inherent conflict between breakdown field and phase switching field has significantly hindered the improvement of its energy storage performance. Herein, the conventional solid-state sintering methods were utilized to fabricate Cd²⁺ doped (Pb_0.925La_0.05)(Hf_0.95Ti_0.05)O₃ ceramics. Noteworthy improvements in the quality of the materials and delayed phase switching fields, along with multiple phase transitions induced by electrical field, allowed these ceramics to achieve an extraordinary recoverable energy density of 12.1 J cm⁻³ under an applied electric field of 640 kV cm⁻¹. Furthermore, the ceramics demonstrated exceptional stability of frequency (1 Hz to 200 Hz) and fatigue (over 10⁴ cycles). This investigation not only highlights the immense potential of PbHfO₃-based antiferroelectric ceramics in energy storage applications but also sets a benchmark for the development of next-generation antiferroelectric materials.