Pyroelectric energy harvesting, storage properties and electrocaloric effect of BNBT-ST ferroelectric ceramics

The research focuses on the potential of lead-free ceramics for thermal energy harvesting and storage, examining the properties of (1-x)[0.94Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-0.06BaTiO3]-xSrTiO3 (BNBT-xST) across different compositions. The study identifies that BNBT-0.025ST, with a lower strontium content, exhibits the highest energy density at 602,836 kJ/m3, suggesting outstanding energy conversion efficiency using the Olsen cycle over a wide temperature and electric field range. This material also shows a notable electrocaloric effect, which could be beneficial for thermal management in industrial settings. Conversely, BNBT-0.3ST is highlighted for its superior room temperature energy storage capabilities, achieving an energy recovery of 517 mJ/cm3 and an efficiency of 82 %, with minimal energy loss. These results support the advancement of lead-free ceramic materials as viable alternatives for efficient energy storage and conversion applications.