Ferroelectric and magnetic properties of Aurivillius Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 thin films

Aurivillius Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 (m = 4, 5, 6) thin films have been deposited by a pulsed laser deposition system. The x-ray diffraction patterns indicate the formation of orthorhombic phase. The remanent polarization (2Pr) of Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 thin films is decreased with the m-number. Positive-up-negative-down measurements indicate the presence of ferroelectric (FE) polarization in as-obtained thin films. Piezoresponse force microscopy investigations confirm the existence of FE domains and the switchable polarization. Weak magnetic moment is detected in the Aurivillius films at room temperature. The present work suggests the possibility of Aurivillius Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 (m = 4, 5, 6) materials as potential room-temperature multiferroics.