Characterization and manipulation of mixed phase nanodomains in highly strained BiFeO3 thin films

ACS Nano. 2012 Jun 26;6(6):5388-94. doi: 10.1021/nn3012459. Epub 2012 May 21.

Abstract

The novel strain-driven morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) in highly strained BiFeO(3) thin films is characterized by well-ordered mixed phase nanodomains (MPNs). Through scanning probe microscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction, eight structural variants of the MPNs are identified. Detailed polarization configurations within the MPNs are resolved using angular-dependent piezoelectric force microscopy. Guided by the obtained results, deterministic manipulation of the MPNs has been demonstrated by controlling the motion of the local probe. These findings are important for an in-depth understanding of the ultrahigh electromechanical response arising from phase transformation between competing phases, enabling future explorations on the electronic structure, magnetoelectricity, and other functionalities in this new MPB system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bismuth / chemistry*
  • Crystallization / methods
  • Elastic Modulus
  • Ferric Compounds / chemistry*
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Materials Testing
  • Membranes, Artificial*
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanoparticles / ultrastructure*
  • Particle Size
  • Phase Transition
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Ferric Compounds
  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Membranes, Artificial
  • ferric oxide
  • bismuth oxide
  • Bismuth