Re-analysing the phase sequence in Eu0.8Y0.2MnO3

TL;DR

This study clarifies the ferroelectric nature of Eu0.8Y0.2MnO3's magnetic phases by analyzing temperature-dependent electric polarization, confirming spontaneous polarization in a specific temperature range and revealing the multiferroic character.

Contribution

It provides detailed evidence of spontaneous polarization in Eu0.8Y0.2MnO3, resolving previous controversies about its multiferroic phases through temperature-dependent electric polarization analysis.

Findings

Spontaneous polarization exists between 22K and 30K.

Lower temperature magnetic phases can induce electric polarization.

Re-entrant magnetic phase is ferroelectric in that temperature range.

Abstract

To clarify the controversy concerning the ferroelectricity of the lower temperature magnetic phases of Eu0.8Y0.2MnO3, hence its multiferroic character, we have studied in detail the temperature dependence of the electric polarization. The existence of a spontaneous polarization in 30K < T < 22K, provides clear evidence for the ferroelectric character of the re-entrant magnetic phase, stable in that temperature range. Both lower temperature magnetic phases allow easily-induced electric polarization, which actually mask any spontaneous polarization.