Electrocaloric effect in relaxor ferroelectric polymer nanocomposites for solid-state cooling

Abstract

The electrocaloric phenomenon in polymers and metals has gained significant interest as an alternative mechanism for conventional compressor-based refrigerators and air conditioners. This renewed interest stems from recent discoveries of new materials that can deliver a strong electrocaloric response close to room temperature. This paper presents a review of recent advances in new materials, scientific understanding, and technology demonstrations of electrocaloric polymers. Combining the advantages of the high breakdown strength of polymers and the high polarization of relaxor ferroelectric ceramic materials, ferroelectric polymer nanocomposites are promising to deliver substantially improved adiabatic change of temperature (ΔT) and isothermal change of entropy (ΔS) and markedly enhanced heating–cooling efficiency. Factors critical to the successful design of high performance electrocaloric devices for advanced flexible cooling systems, such as material combinations, structuring of nanocomposites, and device integration, are systematically reviewed. Future challenges and research opportunities for realising solid-state cooling for electronics are also discussed.