When BiFeO3 layers are confined between TbScO3 layers in an epitaxial superlattice, crystallographically orthogonal voltages can induce reversible, non-volatile switching between polar and antipolar states in BiFeO3. This symmetry switch also leads to marked changes in the nonlinear optical response, piezoresponse and resistivity of the system.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access options
Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals
Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription
$29.99 per month
cancel any time
Subscribe to this journal
Receive 12 print issues and online access
$259.00 per year
only $21.58 per issue
Rent or buy this article
Get just this article for as long as you need it
$39.95
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout

References
Li, X. et al. Terahertz field-induced ferroelectricity in quantum paraelectric SrTiO3. Science 364, 1079–1082 (2019). This report shows how resonant terahertz pulses can induce a transient polar displacement in SrTiO3.
Xu, R. et al. Strain-induced room-temperature ferroelectricity in SrTiO3 membranes. Nat. Commun. 11, 3141 (2020). This article demonstrates how strain can be used to break symmetry and stabilize ferroelectricity in SrTiO3.
Seyler, K. L. et al. Electrical control of second-harmonic generation in a WSe2 monolayer transistor. Nat. Nanotechnol. 10, 407–411 (2015). An article that shows electric field control of second-harmonic generation (symmetry breaking) in WSe2 monolayers.
Dagotto, E. Nanoscale Phase Separation and Colossal Magnetoresistance Vol. 136, Ch. 17 (Springer, 2003). A textbook describing the importance of mixed-phase coexistence in colossal magnteoresistance.
Ahart, M. et al. Origin of morphotropic phase boundaries in ferroelectrics. Nature 451, 545–548 (2008). An article that details the phase boundaries between distinct symmetry phases.
Additional information
Publisher’s note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.
This is a summary of: Caretta, L. et al. Non-volatile electric-field control of inversion symmetry. Nat. Mater. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41563-022-01412-0 (2022).
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Orthogonal electric fields turn on and turn off symmetry in BiFeO3 superlattices. Nat. Mater. 22, 159–160 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41563-022-01413-z
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41563-022-01413-z