Altermagnetism Induced by Sliding Ferroelectricity via Lattice Symmetry-Mediated Magnetoelectric Coupling

Altermagnets, distinct from conventional ferromagnets or antiferromagnets, have recently attracted attention as the third category of collinear magnets, which exhibit the coexistence of zero net magnetization and spin polarization due to their unique lattice symmetries. Meanwhile, the additional layer degrees of freedom in multilayer sliding ferroelectrics offer opportunities for coupling with lattice symmetries, paving the way for an innovative approach to constructing multiferroic lattices. In this study, altermagnetic tuning in SnS₂/MnPSe₃/SnS₂ heterostructures is achieved by breaking and restoration of lattice inversion symmetry through sliding ferroelectric switching. First-principles calculations reveal that the spin density and corresponding time-reversal symmetry of MnPSe₃ can be manipulated by lattice symmetry, triggering phase transitions between antiferromagnetism and altermagnetism. This research establishes a novel form of magnetoelectric coupling mediated by lattice symmetry and provides a theoretical basis for the design of miniature information processing and memory devices based on altermagnetism.