Analytical comparison of magnetic and electrical properties using modified Landau theory in bismuth ferrite: Effect of milling

Abstract In this study, authors have synthesized bismuth ferrite using (i) solid state route and (ii) mechano-chemical activation technique. The structural studies reveal the formation of bismuth ferrite of A 3 − δ B 5 O 12 type by mechanochemical activation technique and of ABO 3 type by conventional solid state route. In addition to the detailed studies on magnetic and electrical properties of both the samples, a comparative analysis has been done using Landau and Berry phase theory. Through this, an effort has been made to establish a relationship between magnetism and electrical polarization vis a vis magneto-electric coupling in these samples.