Complex magnetism and magnetic field-driven electrical polarization in Co$_3$TeO$_6$

TL;DR

This study investigates the magnetic and electrical properties of Co$_3$TeO$_6$ single crystals, revealing a magnetic-field-induced polarization below 21 K, a first-order phase transition at 18 K, and broken inversion symmetry confirmed by SHG.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the magnetism and polarization mechanisms in Co$_3$TeO$_6$, highlighting the role of magnetic fields and symmetry breaking.

Findings

Magnetic-field induced polarization below 21 K

First-order phase transition at approximately 18 K

Broken inversion symmetry confirmed by SHG

Abstract

The magnetic and electrical properties of Co$_3$TeO$_6$ single-crystals with corundum related structure reveal a magnetic-field induced polarization below 21 K. A sharp peak in the specific heat at \approx 18 K indicates a reconstructive-type first-order phase transition. From second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements breaking of inversion symmetry is evident and the point-group symmetry was determined as m. The temperature and magnetic-field dependence of the magnetic and electrical polarizations are discussed in the light of the SHG results.