Ferroelectric Proximity Effect and Topological Hall Effect in SrRuO3/BiFeO3 Multilayers
Xiaokang Yao1,2, Can Wang1,2,3, Er-Jia Guo1,2,3
1Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|January 24, 2022
Summary
We discovered a ferroelectric proximity effect at interfaces between strontium ruthenium oxide (SrRuO3) and bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) multilayers. This effect leads to unique magnetic states and a topological Hall effect, guiding spintronic device design.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Complex oxide interfaces offer a platform for novel physical phenomena.
- Strontium ruthenium oxide (SrRuO3) is an itinerant ferromagnet, and bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) is a multiferroic material.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interfacial physics and functionalities of SrRuO3/BiFeO3 multilayers.
- To explore the ferroelectric proximity effect and its influence on magnetic properties.
- To identify potential for novel phenomena like the topological Hall effect.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of atomically sharp SrRuO3/BiFeO3 multilayers.
- Atomically resolved transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for structural analysis.
- Hall measurements to detect topological Hall effect anomalies.
- Magnetic measurements to probe magnetic ground states.
Main Results:
- Observation of ferroelectric proximity effect: ionic displacement in BiFeO3 penetrates 2-3 unit cells into SrRuO3.
- Indication of topological Hall effect in multilayers with moderate SrRuO3 thickness.
- Identification of distinct magnetic ground states in interfacial and middle regions of SrRuO3 layers.
Conclusions:
- Functional heterointerfaces play a crucial role in exotic material properties.
- The ferroelectric proximity effect significantly influences magnetic behavior in SrRuO3/BiFeO3 systems.
- These findings provide guidelines for designing spintronic devices utilizing magnetic skyrmions.
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