Multiferroics - toward strong coupling between magnetization and polarization in a solid

Multiferroics, in which magnetization and polarization can coexist, are potential candidates of the new spintronic materials which may enable the electrical control of magnetic state. The materials design of the multiferroics and the strategy to enhance the DC and optical magnetoelectric effect are argued in terms of the toroidal moment, helical spin structure, and critical-state phase control. (c) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.