Deterministic Switching of Ferroelectric Bubble Nanodomains

Abstract

Here, the deterministic and reversible transformation of nanoscale ferroelectric bubbles into cylindrical domains using a scanning probe microscopy (SPM) approach is demonstrated. The bubble domains—sub-10 nm spheroid topological structures with rotational polarization—can be erased by applying a mechanical force via the SPM tip. Application of an electrical pulse with a specific combination of amplitude and duration can recreate the bubble domain state. This combination of mechanical and electrical passes is essential for realization of reversible transformation as application of only electrical pulses results in complete erasure of the bubble domain state. Effective Hamiltonian-based simulations reproduce phase sequences for both the mechanical and electric passes and confirm the intrinsic nature of these transitions. This simple and effective pathway for switching between various topological defect states may be exploited for emergent devices.