Constrained ferroelectric domain orientation in (BiFeO3)m(SrTiO3)n superlattice

TL;DR

This study investigates how superlattice structures of BiFeO3 and SrTiO3 influence ferroelectric domain size and orientation, revealing constrained out-of-plane domain alignment compared to single-layer films, which impacts device engineering.

Contribution

It demonstrates the effect of superlattice layering on ferroelectric domain orientation and size in BiFeO3-based heterostructures, providing insights for functional property optimization.

Findings

Reduced domain size in superlattices

Suppressed in-plane domain orientation

Enhanced out-of-plane domain alignment

Abstract

Ferroelectric domains were investigated using piezoresponse force microscopy in superlattices composed of multiferroic BiFeO3 and SrTiO3 layers. Compared to single BiFeO3 thin films, a reduction in the domains size and a suppression of the in-plane orientation of domains are observed in a superlattice of (BiFeO3)4(SrTiO3)8, suggesting a constrained ferroelectric domain orientation along the out-of-plane <001> direction. Such modification of domain size and orientation in BiFeO3-based heterostructures could play a vital role on engineering the domains and domain wall mediated functional properties necessary for device applications