Multiferroic domain boundaries as active memory devices: trajectories towards domain boundary engineering

Abstract

Twin boundaries in ferroelastics and curved interfaces between crystalline and amorphous zircon can, in principle, act as multiferroic structural elements and lead the way to the discovery of novel multiferroic devices which are based on structurally heterogeneous materials. While this paradigm has not yet been explored in full, this review shows that physical and chemical properties can vary dramatically inside twin boundaries and interfaces. Properties that have been already been explored include electric dipoles in a non-polar matrix, the appearance of superconductivity in twin boundaries and the catalytic reaction of hydrous species in interfaces of radiation damaged material. Some of the fundamental physical and chemical properties of twin boundaries and related interfaces are described and possible applications are outlined.