DISCO · Dynamic Interfaces: Strain to Charge and Spin Inside Mobile Ferroelectric Domain Walls

The overall aim of DISCO is to transform our approach to operando atomic scale microscopy, to both probe and manipulate theemergent phases formed inside ferroelectric domain walls during dynamics.Ferroelectric domain wall topologies are one of the most fascinating objects in condensed matter physics, due to their localised multi-functionality and mobility. Recent advances in characterisation techniques have shown that ferroelectric wall configurations go wellbeyond the previously accepted Ising-type structure. Néel-, Bloch-, and vortex-like polar patterns have been observed, displayingstrong similarities with the spin textures at magnetic walls. This seismic shift in the field of ferroelectrics has initiated a cross disciplinary dimension, connecting the ferroelectrics and magnetism communities. However, research into the exotic orders of theferroelectric domain walls is still in its infancy, and to date the focus has been on the static properties of the walls.The dynamics of domain walls is the key advantage of this type of interface for future interactive nano-electronics, and thus it is vitalto not just probe the stationary phases. The DISCO team will target the emerging phases formed inside the walls when they aremoving. The major roadblock is the lack of experimental detection methods that provide the required resolution and sensitivity. Wecannot harness these dynamic functionalities if we do not understand the sub-atomic scale fundamental physics governing theirformation.DISCO will exploit the in-situ electric field of Å-sized electron microscopy probes, thus allowing us to investigate dynamics at the subatomic scale. The crucial goal of this project is detecting and detangling changes in signals of strain, charge and spin produced as thedomain walls move. DISCO will introduce viable operando detection schemes for coupled signals within atomic scale interfaces,creating new possibilities in dynamic nano-electronics and future quantum devices.