Superior energy storage performance in antiferroelectric multilayer ceramics via heterogeneous interface structure engineering

Dielectric ceramics are desired for pulse power electronic systems owing to their high power density. However, there are obstacles in the simultaneous enhancement of energy density (W-rec) and energy efficiency (eta). The two crucial parameters affecting the energy storage performance are polarization (P) and electric breakdown strength (E-b). Although considerable efforts have been made, the contradiction between high P and high E-b is still a challenging problem. In this work, the macroscopic properties and microstructure of (Pb0.9Ba0.04La0.04) (Zr0.65Sn0.3Ti0.05)O-3 (PBLZST) / (Pb0.95Ca0.02La0.02)(Zr0.93Sn0.05Ti0.02)O-3 (PCLZST) antiferroelectric multilayer ceramics prepared by a tape-casting method are combined to realize the synergic optimization of P and E-b. The huge difference in dielectric constants (epsilon(r)) of these two materials leads to the interfacial polarization effect and interfacial blocking effect. Despite their different electric characteristics, they have similar elemental composi-tions, matching lattice structures and compatible sintering processability, forming dense interface bonding. Ultimately, the structured ceramics achieve a high W-rec of 9.4 J cm(-3) and a high n of 86.5 % at 278 kV cm(-1), as well as favorable temperature stability, frequency stability and anti-fatigue property. The structure design combined with interfacial effects in this study provides a new strategy for the preparation of multilayer ceramics with superior energy storage performance.