Electric-field-induced reversible magnetic single-domain evolution in a magnetoelectric thin film

We report experimental results on a Ni-nanobar/lead zirconate titanate-film magnetoelectric device demonstrating control of a metastable magnetic single domain with an electric field due to the converse magnetoelectric effect (i.e., coupling of piezoelectric effect, mechanical coupling, and magnetostriction). The reversible single-domain evolution from an initial single-domain state to a transitional S-shape domain state with an electric field was experimentally observed with magnetic force microscopy. Upon removal of the electric field, the single domain reverts to its original domain configuration. These results confirm change of a single domain in the nanoscale magnetoelectric/multiferroic device is achievable and subsequent control of local magnetic field is possible.