# Stochastic model of dispersive multi-step polarization switching in ferroelectrics due to spatial electric field distribution

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a stochastic model for polarization switching in ferroelectric ceramics that incorporates multi-step processes and spatial electric field variations, improving the understanding of microscopic mechanisms.

## Contribution

It combines existing models into a new comprehensive stochastic framework that better explains polarization and strain responses in ferroelectrics.

## Key findings

- Enhanced agreement with experimental measurements
- Better description of polarization and strain dynamics
- Deeper insight into microscopic switching mechanisms

## Abstract

A stochastic model for polarization switching in tetragonal ferroelectric ceramics is introduced, which includes sequential 90{\deg}- and parallel 180{\deg}-switching processes and accounts for the dispersion of characteristic switching times due to a nonuniform spatial distribution of the applied field. It presents merging of the recent multistep stochastic mechanism (MSM) with the earlier nucleation limited switching (NLS) and inhomogeneous field mechanism (IFM) models. The new model provides a much better description of simultaneous polarization and strain responses over a wide time window and a deeper insight into the microscopic switching mechanisms, as is exemplarily shown by comparison with measurements on lead zirconate titanate.