Polar properties and phase sequence in Eu(0.8)Y(0.2)MnO(3)

J Phys Condens Matter. 2010 Mar 31;22(12):125901. doi: 10.1088/0953-8984/22/12/125901. Epub 2010 Mar 8.

Abstract

In this work, we have studied in detail the temperature dependence of the electric polarization of Eu(0.8)Y(0.2)MnO(3) aimed at clarifying the controversial issues concerning the ferroelectric nature of the lower temperature magnetic phases and hence its multiferroic character. The existence of a spontaneous polarization in 30 K < T < 22 K, provides clear evidence for the ferroelectric character of the re-entrant non-collinear spiral-antiferromagnetic phase, stable in that temperature range. Contrary to results published in previous works, our experimental data clearly show that the weak-ferromagnetic, canted antiferromagnetic phase stable below 20 K is not intrinsically ferroelectric. The misinterpretation, regarding the polar character of the lower temperature magnetic phases, stems from the existence of an induced polarization occurring below 30 K. The mechanisms associated with polar and magnetic properties, and their correlation with both spin and lattice structures are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't