Tuning of electrocaloric performance in (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3 by induced relaxor-like behavior

Induced relaxor-like behavior is reported by addition of a sintering additive to the (Ba0.83Ca0.13)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O-3 solid solution. The effect of Bi2O3 sinter additive on microstructure is determined. The phase transition behavior is highlighted by dielectric permittivity measurements. The electrocaloric temperature change is directly measured and comparison with literature data is provided on basis of the material related cooling power. Addition of Bi2O3 drastically increases the temperature stability and an ultra-wide temperature range of over 100 K is achieved. The findings path a way to tune electrocaloric materials for optimization of properties for solid-state coolers based on the electrocaloric effect.