Constructing superparaelectric polar structure for dielectric energy storage

To meet the miniaturization demands of next-generation electronics and electrical systems, energy storage capacitors with both high energy density and efficiency have become a research hotspot. Ferroelectric-based dielectrics are primary candidates due to the existence of spontaneous polarization and versatile domain structures. Since domains are fundamental structure units that respond to the external electric field, domain engineering is a general route to realizing high energy storage performance. In this perspective, we introduce a type of dielectrics, proposed recently and termed superparaelectrics, which has ultrasmall polar clusters (several unit cells) and exhibits nearly zero hysteresis and relatively high polarization due to the highly dynamical polar structure. Fundamental concepts of superparaelectricity are overviewed, and representative examples with state-of-the-art energy storage performance are reviewed to demonstrate the advantages of superparaelectrics. Finally, perspectives are provided about the future development of superparaelectric and electrostatic energy storage fields.