| Abstract: | Lead-free (1-x)BaTiO3-xSr(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (abbreviated as BT-xSZN, x = 0–0.08) relaxor ferroelectric ceramics were prepared using the traditional solid phase technology, and the effects of SZN modification on their phase structures, microstructures, dielectric performance, ferroelectricity and energy storage performance were studied in detail. A pure perovskite phase was observed in the BT-xSZN ceramics. The BT-based ceramics modified by SZN exhibited refined grain size. As the SZN content was increased, the breakdown strength initially increased and then decreased, and the ferroelectric loops gradually became ‘slim’. The BT-xSZN (x = 0.07) ceramics demonstrated a favourable energy storage performance with high recoverable energy density (Wrec = ~1.45 J/cm3) and energy storage efficiency (η = ~83.12%) at 260 kV/cm. Results indicate that the energy storage performance of BaTiO3 ceramics modified by SZN can be remarkably improved, widening their applications in energy storage at low temperatures. |
