Analytical comparison of magnetic and electrical properties using modified Landau theory in bismuth ferrite: Effect of milling

In this study, authors have synthesized bismuth ferrite using (i) solid state route and (ii) mechanochemical activation technique, The structural studies reveal the formation of bismuth ferrite of A(3-delta)B(5)O(12) type by mechanochemical activation technique and of ABO(3) type by conventional solid state route. In addition to the detailed studies on magnetic and electrical properties of both the samples, a comparative analysis has been done using Landau and Berry phase theory. Through this, an effort has been made to establish a relationship between magnetism and electrical polarization vis a vis magneto electric coupling in these samples. (C) 2013 Elsevier BM. All rights reserved.