Visualization of nanodomain structures in lithium niobate and lithium tantalate crystals by scanning electron microscopy

• Published in: Ferroelectrics Vol. 503; no. 1; pp. 60 - 67
• Main Authors: Kuznetsov, D. K., Chezganov, D. S., Mingaliev, E. A., Kosobokov, M. S., Shur, V. Ya
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Philadelphia Taylor & Francis 20-10-2016; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: chemical etching; Crystal structure; Crystal surfaces; Crystals; Ferroelectric materials; Ferroelectric structure; Ferroelectrics; Lithium tantalates; nanodomains; Nanostructure; Scanning electron microscopy; Visualization; Voltage
• ISSN: 0015-0193; 1563-5112
• DOI: 10.1080/00150193.2016.1217703

Imaging of ferroelectric domains using scanning electron microscopy is challenging as ferroelectrics are usually highly insulating. However, micro and nanodomain patterns can be directly visualized in secondary electrons using proper parameters. Low accelerating voltage or local charge compensation allows visualizing isolated domains with sizes above 100 nm without any sample preparation. Nanodomain patterns can be visualized with resolution about 3 nm after proper preparation of the sample surface: controlled chemical etching to obtain nanoscale surface relief and subsequent covering of the crystal surface by conductive film. Features of visualization of various nanodomain structures by scanning electron microscopy are considered.