Ferroelectric films, which have a broad range of applications including the emerging energy technology, usually consist of nanoscale inhomogeneities. For polycrystalline films, the size and distribution of nano-grains determines the macroscopic properties, especially the field-induced polarization response. For epitaxial films, the energy of internal long-range electric and elastic fields during their growth are minimized by formation of self-assembled nano-domains. A ferroelectric film with a properly engineered polydomain nanostructure can have much better properties than those of a homogeneous single phase ferroelectric film or a polycrystalline one. Most of the time, the property enhancement (electromechanical, pyroelectric) comes from extrinsic contributions by collective field responses of the nanodomains. A well-desired exception is the improved energy storage density due to delayed saturation of the polarization in a polydomain ferroelectric film with reduced domain-wall mobility. Lastly, the nano-layers of interfaces between a ferroelectric film and its electrodes or between neighboring ferroelectric layers can be engineered to better gate the flow of electric charges, leading to reduced leakage currents and enhanced dielectric performance. Nanostructures in Ferroelectric Films for Energy has been written to present methods of engineering nanostructures in ferroelectric films to improve their performance in energy harvesting, conversion & storage, as well as providing a perspective on ferroelectric-based energy technologies.

This book is an accessible reference for both instructors in academia and R&D professionals. Provide for the systematic study of the structure-property relationship in ferroelectric thin film materials, using case studies in energy applications Written by leading experts in the research areas of piezoelectrics, electrocalorics, ferroelectric dielectrics (especially in capacitive energy storage), ferroelectric domains, ferroelectric-Si technology Includes a well balanced mix of theoretical design and simulation, materials processing and integration, as well as dedicated characterization methods of the involved nanostructures.