Quasi-static modulation of multiferroic properties in flexible magnetoelectric Cr₂O₃/muscovite heteroepitaxy

Due to the strong coupling between electrical polarization and magnetization, magnetoelectric materials show promising features for low-power spintronics and ultra-sensitive magnetic sensors. Compared to the conventional tunning of magnetoelectricity, this work presents a modulation of magnetic and electric orders in magnetoelectric material through a quasi-static mechanical strain. To acquire this, linear magnetoelectric Cr₂O₃ film is fabricated epitaxially on muscovite substrates. Taking the natural flexibility of muscovite, applying a strain to the heterostructure is feasible via mechanical bending. In the bending experiment, the magnetization of Cr₂O₃ film can be enhanced significantly, and the techniques of X-ray absorption dichroism unveil insights with support from theoretical predictions. Besides, the electric polarization and magnetoelectric coupling of Cr₂O₃ can also be adjusted by mechanical bending. This work offers a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between quasi-static strain and magnetic and electrical behaviors and opens a new aspect of the combination between magnetoelectric materials and flexible substrates for future development.