Role of temperature-dependent electron trapping dynamics in the optically driven nanodomain transformation in a PbTiO${_3}$/SrTiO${_3}$ superlattice

TL;DR

This study investigates how temperature-dependent electron trapping influences the optically induced transformation of nanodomain structures in a PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattice, revealing a model that predicts the observed behaviors.

Contribution

It introduces a model linking electron trapping dynamics to nanodomain transformation under optical illumination in ferroelectric superlattices.

Findings

Transformation threshold depends on optical intensity.

Recovery time varies with temperature.

Electron trapping model accurately predicts behavior.

Abstract

The spontaneously formed striped polarization nanodomain configuration of a PbTiO${_3}$/SrTiO${_3}$ superlattice transforms to a uniform polarization state under above-bandgap illumination with a time dependence varying with the intensity of optical illumination and a well-defined threshold intensity. Recovery after the end of illumination occurs over a temperature-dependent period of tens of seconds at room temperature and shorter times at elevated temperatures. A model in which the screening of the depolarization field depends on the population of trapped electrons correctly predicts the observed temperature and optical intensity dependence.