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arXiv · 0912.3492

Interfacial Magnetoelectric Coupling in Tri-component Superlattices

Jaekwang Lee·Na Sai·Tianyi Cai·Qian Niu·Alexander A. Demkov
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Abstract

Using first-principles density functional theory, we investigate the interfacial magnetoelectric coupling in a tri-component superlattice composed of a ferromagnetic metal (FM), ferroelectric (FE), and normal metal (NM). Using Fe/FE/Pt as a model system, we show that a net and cumulative interfacial magnetization is induced in the FM metal near the FM/FE interface. A carefully analysis of the magnetic moments in Fe reveals that the interfacial magnetization is a consequence of a complex interplay of interfacial charge transfer, chemical bonding, and spin dependent electrostatic screening. The last effect is linear in the FE polarization, is switchable upon its reversal, and yields a substantial interfacial magnetoelectric coupling.

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Jaekwang Lee, Na Sai, Tianyi Cai, Qian Niu, Alexander A. Demkov. 2009-12-17. Interfacial Magnetoelectric Coupling in Tri-component Superlattices. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevb.81.144425

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