Magnetic field induced ferroelectric loop in Bi0.75Sr0.25FeO3−δ

Abstract : Magnetic field induced ferroelectric hysteresis loop observed in Bi0.75Sr0.25FeO3−δ is of prime importance. The coexistence of antiferromagnetism and weak ferromagnetism is responsible for the original magnetoelastic and magnetoferroelectric properties. Upon external magnetic field application, the existence of a magnetostrictive effect supports a structural transition toward a homogeneous antiferromagnetic and ferroelectric phase. The magnetic field induced polarization is among the highest reported for BiFeO3 based systems in either thin film or bulk form (Pr=96μC/cm2 at 10T) while the ferroelectric coercive field is among the lowest reported (Hc=661V∕cm at 10T ). These properties make this material very attractive for technical applications. We acknowledge valuable discussions with Ranjith Ramadurai and financial support to the SEMONE french ANR project.