Solid solution-induced relaxation and enhanced dielectric energy storage capacity in BaTiO3 ceramics

BaTiO 3 (BT)-based ceramics have emerged as promising contenders for dielectric energy storage applications owing to their excellent thermal stability and favorable dielectric characteristics. Nevertheless, their substantial remnant polarization (Pr) and inadequate breakdown strength (Eb) impede energy storage performance advancement. In this work, BiZn0.5Hf0.5O3 (BZH) was incorporated to construct a (1−x)BT–xBZH solid solution, aiming to modulate the microstructure and enhance the functional properties. The introduction of BZH induced relaxation effects, effectively refined the grain size, improved densification, and significantly boosted both Eb and energy storage capability. Under a 270kVcm−1 electric field, the optimized 0.88BT–0.12BZH composition achieved a high Wrec of 3.58Jcm−3 and an energy efficiency (η) of 83%. Furthermore, at 160kVcm−1, it showed a peak current density of 1307.86Acm−2, a high power density of 104.63MWcm−3, and an extremely rapid discharge time (τ0.9) of 37 ns. The data reveal that the (1−x)BT–xBZH system provides a promising approach toward high-performance lead-free dielectric capacitors featuring superior energy storage capabilities and rapid charge–discharge characteristics.