Electric field-induced Skyrmion distortion and giant lattice rotation in the magnetoelectric insulator Cu2OSeO3

TL;DR

This study demonstrates that applying electric fields to the magnetoelectric insulator Cu2OSeO3 can induce significant Skyrmion lattice rotations, revealing a novel, current-free method for Skyrmion manipulation.

Contribution

The paper introduces a new approach to control Skyrmions via electric fields, avoiding the use of spin-transfer torques, and provides experimental and theoretical insights into the resulting lattice distortions.

Findings

Electric fields induce up to 25° rotation of Skyrmion lattice.

Neutron scattering confirms E-field causes Skyrmion distortion.

Calculations support E-field-induced lattice rotation mechanism.

Abstract

Uniquely in Cu2OSeO3, the Skyrmions, which are topologically protected magnetic spin vortex-like objects, display a magnetoelectric coupling and can be manipulated by externally applied electric (E) fields. Here, we explore the E-field coupling to the magnetoelectric Skyrmion lattice phase, and study the response using neutron scattering. Giant E-field induced rotations of the Skyrmion lattice are achieved that span a range of $\sim$25$^{\circ}$. Supporting calculations show that an E-field-induced Skyrmion distortion lies behind the lattice rotation. Overall, we present a new approach to Skyrmion control that makes no use of spin-transfer torques due to currents of either electrons or magnons.