Abstract
The response of polar nanoregions (PNR) in the ferroelectric relaxor subject to a [111]-oriented electric field has been studied by neutron diffuse scattering. Contrary to classical expectations, the diffuse scattering associated with the PNR persists, and is even partially enhanced, after field cooling. The effect of the external electric field is retained by the PNR after the field is removed. The “memory” of the applied field reappears even after heating the system above the Curie temperature and cooling in zero field.
- Received 17 October 2005
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.72.214106
©2005 American Physical Society