Effect of the synthesis method and particle size on BCZT electrocaloric properties

Abstract

In this study, the electrocaloric properties of BCZT ceramics fabricated through different processing methods: solid-state and sol-gel were investigated. The calcination process was done for BCZT powders obtained by sol-gel process at 900 degrees C for 2 h and by solid-state calcination method at 1200 degrees C for 6 h. BCZT-SG ceramics exhibited higher Delta T values, particularly at lower temperatures (similar to 0 degrees C-20 degrees C), and a stronger response to the electric field, suggesting a more efficient domain structure due to sol-gel processing. Notably, BCZT-SGH samples demonstrated the most complex and pronounced electrocaloric behavior, with dual Delta T peaks around 0 degrees C and 50 degrees C, and the highest Delta T of 2.5 K at 80 kV/cm and 50 degrees C, surpassing values in the literature. Especially, high Delta T results at 0 degrees C allows using this material in the extreme conditions. These results emphasize the significant role of processing techniques in tailoring the structural, dielectric, and electrocaloric properties of BCZT ceramics for high-performance energy applications.