Simultaneously achieved large electrocaloric effect and broad working temperature range in transparent Sm-doped 0.88 Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.12PbTiO3 ceramics at low electric field

Electrocaloric refrigeration technology has garnered significant attention due to its potential for next-generation solid-state cooling, which is miniaturized and efficient. However, achieving a substantial electrocaloric effect (ECE) and a wide working temperature range at low electric fields remains a challenge. In this study, a synergistic approach combining domain and defect engineering was used in transparent 0.88 Pb(Mg 1/3 Nb 2/3 )O 3 -0.12PbTiO 3 - x Sm(0.88PMN-0.12 PT- x Sm) ceramics to improve ECE and temperature stability. Finally, a notable adiabatic temperature change ( ΔT ) of 2.07 K in the x  = 0.01 ceramic, with ΔT exceeding 1.0 K across a broad temperature range from 30 to 180 °C was achieved. Piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the presence of small domains and appropriate oxygen vacancies as contributors to the enhanced ECE and broad operation temperature range. This work introduces a promising candidate material for electrocaloric refrigeration.