Nano-thin ferroelectric capacitors set to transform tech [Video]

A group of researchers from the McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis may have discovered working ferroelectric capacitors. Using a combination of 2D and 3D structures, this discovery could lead to real-world applications of this elusive, promising electrical storage solution.

Electrostatic capacitors are critical for energy storage and power in modern devices, from smartphones and laptops to medical and industrial equipment. Ones made from ferroelectric materials have long been sought to dramatically increase the efficiency of capacitors. However, they have long been plagued with technical problems.

Due to their properties, ferroelectric capacitors suffer significant energy loss, making achieving high energy storage capacity difficult. To this end, Sang-Hoon Bae, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at McKelvey, sought to find a way …