Visualization of domain structure and piezoelectric energy harvesting in a ferroelectric metal-ligand cage

The ferroelectric behaviour of an octahedral cage [[Ni-6(H2O)(12)(TPTA)(8)]center dot(NO3)(12)center dot 36H(2)O] (1) exhibiting high remnant polarization of 25.31 mu C cm(-2) is discovered. For the first time, clear domain structures and the characteristic electromechanical responses are demonstrated using piezoresponsive force microscopy for a thin film of 1. Owing to its mechanical energy conversion capability, polymer composites of 1 were employed as efficient piezoelectric nanogenerators.