Imaging and control of periodic array of stripe domain and domain wall in epitaxial BiFeO3 thin films

Abstract

Ferroelectric stripe domain structure and domain walls were investigated by vector PFM on epitaxial BiFeO3 thin films. Measurements of topography of film versus distance between spikes, we identify the [Formula: see text] domain in the film, were supported by XRD and AFM characterization. [Formula: see text] domain can be switched under the electric field engendered by the biased PFM tip, and their controllable [Formula: see text] rotation can be maintained by electron injection by the PFM tip. These stripe domain walls are conductive, provide an opportunity to further study their new properties in high-density memory devices.