Engineering Phase Separation in Niobate Glass through Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics for Enhanced Energy Storage...

The advancement of lead-free glass ceramics (GCs) possessing appropriate energy storage characteristics is crucial for the renewable energy and electronics industry. In this study, we synthesized lead-free GCs predominantly composed of the tungsten bronze phase, Ba_3.3Nb₁₀O_28.3. Ab initio molecular dynamics initially reveal nonuniform distribution within the Ba/Nb-O regions in niobite glassy melts, offering valuable insights for the subsequent crystallization process. The proposal of a B-site engineering strategy is suggested, which entails the concurrent reduction of grain size and augmentation of the band gap in tungsten bronze GCs doped with Ta. This approach results in a substantial enhancement of the dielectric breakdown strength (BDS). Phase-field simulations have indicated that the refinement of grain sizes plays a pivotal role in augmenting the local electric field distribution and breakdown path, thereby contributing to the enhancement of BDS. As a consequence of these modifications, a notably high recoverable energy density (W_rec) of 5.23 J/cm³ can be achieved, accompanied by an ultrahigh efficiency (η) of 94%, and superior thermal stability in energy storage. These outcomes are particularly evident in the case of 2 mol % Ta₂O₅-doped P₂O₅-K₂O-BaO-Bi₂O₃-TeO₂-Nb₂O₅ (PKBBTN-T) GCs, where the W_rec and η can be determined to be 2.87 ± 3% J/cm³ and 95.46 ± 4%, respectively, over a temperature range spanning from 20 to 150 °C. Additionally, this specimen exhibits an exceptionally high discharge energy density (W_dis) of 4.01 J/cm³. This comprehensive investigation, comprising experimental and theoretical analyses, establishes an effective pathway and paradigm for the development of dielectric materials with ultrahigh energy storage properties.