Magnetization-polarization cross-control near room temperature in hexaferrite single crystals

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• The magnetoelectric (ME) effect enables mutual control of electric and magnetic fields, offering low-power alternatives for data storage and spintronic devices.
• Significant electric-field control of magnetization has been limited to low temperatures, hindering practical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To stabilize a material exhibiting both ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric properties simultaneously.
• To demonstrate electric-field control of magnetization at temperatures approaching room temperature.

Main Methods:

• Stabilization of a coexisting ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric phase in a Y-type hexaferrite single crystal.
• Demonstration of large, non-volatile magnetization reversal using an electric field.
• Direct visualization of magnetic domain manipulation via magnetic force microscopy at room temperature.

Main Results:

• Successfully stabilized a multiferroic phase in Y-type hexaferrite up to 450 K.
• Achieved significant electric-field-induced magnetization reversal near room temperature.
• Directly visualized magnetic domain manipulation by electric fields at room temperature.

Conclusions:

• This work represents a significant advancement towards the application of magnetoelectric multiferroics.
• The findings pave the way for developing novel low-power electronic devices utilizing electric-field control of magnetism.