Enhanced energy-storage properties in (Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 ceramics by doping linear perovskite materials Ca0.85Bi0.1(Sn0.5Ti0.5)O3

•We propose a cooperative optimized strategy for achieving high energy storage performance by introducing linear dielectric CBST into BNT ceramic.•Doping CBST enhances the relaxor behavior of BNT ceramic, which collectively improves breakdown strength and delays premature saturation polarization.•A high recoverable energy density of 3.83 J/cm3 and an energy efficiency of 77.9 % are successfully obtained in the BNT-0.12CBST ceramic.•The phase diagram of this new solid solution has been established. Our study shows great potential for practical applications in pulse power systems. For energy storage applications in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT)-based materials, the key challenges are the premature polarization saturation and low breakdown electric field (Eb), which confine the energy storage capacity of BNT and significantly restrict progress in advancing pulsed power capacitors. Hence, the cooperative optimization strategy of band structure and defect engineering was proposed, which successfully obtained a high recoverable energy density of 3.83 J/cm3 and an energy efficiency of 77.9 % in the Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-0.12Ca0.85Bi0.1(Sn0.5Ti0.5)O3 (BNT-0.12CBST) ceramics. Doping the BNT matrix with CBST has been shown to not only reduce grain size but also enhance relaxor behavior, which collectively improves breakdown strength and delays polarization saturation. Furthermore, the x = 0.12 ceramic also exhibits a commendable discharge power density of 91.9 MW/cm3 and a transient discharge time of 40 ns. The higher resistivity and lower oxygen vacancy concentration are conductive to acquire superior breakdown electric field and energy storage performance. We determine the crystal structure, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of the studied ceramics in a wide range of temperatures and concentrations, and a phase diagram is constructed, which illustrates the complex phases present and their transformation behavior. Our work provides an effective strategy to optimize the energy-storage of dielectric ceramics, and shows great potential for practical applications in pulse power systems.