Field-Modulation Imaging of Ferroelectric Domains in Molecular Single-Crystal Films

Abstract

Domain structure accounts for the robust ferroelectricity of some organic compounds, but the limits of instrumentation have prevented detailed domain characterization. Using a state-of-the-art image sensor, the authors develop a sensitive, rapid visualization technique based on the first-order electro-optic effect, enabling mm-scale visualization of ferroelectric domain structures with sub-$\ensuremath{\mu}$m spatial resolution. The ability to probe depth allows unambiguous discrimination of a domain wall's charge state, and thus its topological nature and motion, to promote applications of organic ferroelectrics in high-performance, low-cost devices.