High energy storage capability of perovskite relaxor ferroelectrics via hierarchical optimization

Ultrafast charge/discharge process and ultrahigh power density enable dielectrics essential components in modern electrical and electronic devices, especially in pulse power systems. However, in recent years, the energy storage performances of present dielectrics are increasingly unable to satisfy the growing demand for miniaturization and integration, which stimulates further researches on dielectrics with higher energy density and efficiency. Among various inorganic dielectrics, perovskite relaxor ferroelectrics are recognized as promising candidates for energy storage applications, with high permittivity and relatively high efficiency. Here, we focus on recent progress and achievements on optimizing perovskite relaxor ferroelectrics toward better energy storage capability through hierarchical design. The principles and key parameters of dielectric energy storage, together with the definition of majority types of dielectrics, are introduced at first. Strategies within various scales include domain, grain size, orientation, and composite engineering are summarized. The existing challenges are presented and future prospects are proposed in the end, with the background of both academic explorations and industrial applications. Graphical abstract