Multiferroic Multilayer Thin Film Strategy

Incorporating magnetic materials into electronic devices can add multi-functionality if electric field control of magnetism is achieved. Researchers at the Northwestern University MRSEC have created high-quality heterostructures between ferroelectics and ferrimagnetics. The smooth interface between the film and the substrate was achieved with molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). It is precisely this smooth interface that has the potential to give the desired electric field control of magnetism.

This high resolution transmission electron microscopy image shows nearly atomic changes between the Fe₃O₄ film and the SrTiO₃ substrate that were achieved by MBE.

G. Sterbinsky, J. Cheng and B. W. Wessels

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