Direct observation of ferroelectricity in Ca${}_3$Mn${}_2$O${}_7$ and its prominent light absorption

Abstract

Layered perovskites $A_3{M}_2$O${}_7$ are known to exhibit the so-called hybrid improper ferroelectricity. Despite experimentally confirmed cases (e.g. nonmagnetic $M$=Ti and Sn), the ferroelectricity in magnetic Ca${}_3$Mn${}_2$O${}_7$ remains a puzzle. Here, the structural, ferroelectric, magnetoelectric, and optical properties of Ca${}_3$Mn${}_2$O${}_7$ are systematically investigated. Switchable polarization is directly measured, demonstrating its ferroelectricity. In addition, magnetoelectric response is also evidenced, implying the coupling between magnetism and ferroelectricity. Furthermore, strong visible light absorption is observed, which can be understood from its electronic structure. Its direct and appropriate band gap, as well as wide conducting bands, makes Ca${}_3$Mn${}_2$O${}_7$ a potential candidate for ferroelectric photoelectric applications.

5 pages, 4 figures

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Cited by in corpus (10)

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• High-temperature ferroelectric order and magnetic field-cooled effect driven magnetoelectric coupling in R2BaCuO5 (R= Er, Dy, Sm)
• Orbital ordering in the layered perovskite material CsVF${}_4$
• Interplay of Spin, Lattice, and Charge Degrees of Freedom in Ca3Mn2O7
• Perspective on 2D perovskite ferroelectrics and multiferroics
• Negative piezoelectricity in quasi-two/one-dimensional ferroelectrics
• Harmonic Magneto-dielectric Study in Doped Perovskites, and Double Perovskite