Amorphous thin films of ferroelectric oxides

Amorphous thin films of ferroelectric LiNbO3 and Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 were prepared on a variety of substrates. Their properties were characterized in comparison with typical ferroelectric crystal behavior. It was found that these amorphous thin films show ferroelectric-like behaviors well before being crystallized. These findings suggest possible practical applications in areas where ferroelectric crystals are routinely in use. A structural model is proposed to account for the ferroelectric-like behaviors in the amorphous phases.