Abstract
We determine the atomic structure of the pseudotetragonal phase and the pseudorhombohedral phase in highly strained multiferroic thin films by using a combination of atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy. The coordination of the Fe atoms and their displacement relative to the O and Bi positions are assessed by direct imaging. These observations allow us to interpret the electronic structure data derived from electron energy-loss spectroscopy and provide evidence for the giant spontaneous polarization in strained thin films.
- Received 11 August 2011
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.047601
© 2012 American Physical Society