Domain structures of ferroelectric nanotubes controlled by surface charge compensation

Domain structures in ferroelectric nanotubes (FNTs) under different electrical boundary conditions are predicted through a phase field model. Simulation results show that domain structures are highly dependent on the compensation of polarization-induced surface charges. In order to reduce the depolarization energy, polarizations in FNTs form a vortex structure under an open-circuit boundary condition. When surface charges are compensated on the inner and outer surfaces, a multidomain structure is formed in FNTs as a result of competition between the long-range electrostatic and elastic interactions. However, a single-domain structure is energically favorable in FNTs if the upper and lower surfaces are short-circuited. (C) 2008 American Institute of Physics.