Magnetic properties regulation by electric-field for α-Fe2O3/LiTaO3 thin film at room temperature

Abstract Ion migration driven by electric-field may cause multiple changes in stoichiometry, defect, and structure, thus provide approach for modulating properties. α-Fe2O3 have attracted tremendous attention as anode materials for lithium ion batteries. The magnetic properties of weakly-ferromagnetic α-Fe2O3/LiTaO3 films can be manipulated non-volatilely at room temperature by the applied room temperature electric-field. The regulation of magnetic properties induced by the room temperature electric-field may relate to the migration effects of lithium ions. A theoretical investigation on the microstructure and magnetic properties before and after the insertion of lithium ion into α-Fe2O3 shows that the insertion of lithium ion induces local structural distortion, charge redistribution and the magnetic moment increase. This study makes a step forward for electric control of magnetism in solid-state ferrite film and provides opportunities for the development of multifunctional structures