Magnetization Reversal by Electric-Field Decoupling of Magnetic and Ferroelectric Domains Walls in Multiferroic-Based Heterostructures

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates rapid electric-field-induced magnetization reversal in a multiferroic heterostructure, achieved through decoupling of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic domain walls, independent of strain effects.

Contribution

It introduces a novel electric-field-driven mechanism for magnetization switching via domain wall decoupling in multiferroic heterostructures, distinct from strain-mediated effects.

Findings

Magnetization can be reversed quickly by electric pulses.

Switching of magnetic exchange bias is isothermal and reversible.

Decoupling of domain walls is key to magnetic switching.

Abstract

We demonstrate that the magnetization of a ferromagnet in contact with an antiferromagnetic multiferroic (LuMnO3) can be speedily reversed by electric field pulsing, and the sign of the magnetic exchange bias can switch and recover isothermally. As LuMnO3 is not ferroelastic, our data conclusively show that this switching is not mediated by strain effects but is a unique electric-field driven decoupling of the ferroelectric and ferromagnetic domains walls. Their distinct dynamics are essential for the observed magnetic switching.