Pb(Zr _0.52 Ti _0.48 )O ₃ Ferroelectric Ceramic X‐Ray Detectors with High‐Temperature Self‐Driven Sensitivity and Low Detection Limit

Abstract

ABSTRACT Advancing X‐ray detection technology hinges on creating next‐generation direct‐detection semiconductors that unite high sensitivity, exceptional stability, and self‐powered functionality. Here, Pb(Zr 0.52 Ti 0.48 )O 3 (PZT) ceramic is developed as a novel self‐powered X‐ray detection material due to its huge internal electrostatic field. Under 70 keV X‐ray radiation, the PZT ceramic detector shows a high sensitivity of 1196.82 µC Gy air −1  cm −2 at room temperature, which is about 60 times larger than commercial α ‐Se. Meanwhile, the minimum detectable limit reaches 7.31 nGy air  s −1 under 40 keV X‐ray. Interestingly, the self‐powered PZT ceramic detection properties can be regulated by temperature. At 125°C, the PZT detector exhibits a record self‐powered sensitivity of 544.69 µC Gy air −1  cm −2 and an ultralow detection limit of 10.71 nGy air  s −1 under 70 keV X‐ray radiation. Moreover, the imaging capability of the self‐powered PZT ceramic detector is successfully demonstrated at 125°C. This first demonstration of heavy‐metal‐containing ferroelectric ceramics as excellent self‐powered X‐ray detection materials marks a breakthrough, revealing their potential for future high‐temperature applications and significantly advancing the use of ferroelectrics in this field.