Surface and bulk polaritons in a PML-type magnetoelectric multiferroic with canted spins: TE and TM polarization

Gunawan, V. and Stamps, R.L. (2011) Surface and bulk polaritons in a PML-type magnetoelectric multiferroic with canted spins: TE and TM polarization. Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter, 23(10), p. 105901. (doi: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/10/105901)

Abstract

We present a theory for surface polaritons on ferroelectric–antiferromagnetic materials with canted spin structure. A small uniform canted moment is allowed, resulting in a weak ferromagnetism directed in the plane parallel to the surface. Surface and bulk polariton modes for a semi-infinite film are calculated for the case of transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarization. Example results are presented using parameters appropriate for BaMnF₄. We find that the surface modes are non-reciprocal for the TE polarization due to the magnetoelectric interaction, and the non-reciprocity can be controlled by an applied electric field. Example results for attenuated total reflection (ATR) are calculated. The magnetoelectric interaction also gives rise to 'leaky' surface modes in the case of TM polarization. These are pseudo-surface waves that exist in the pass band, and dissipate energy into the bulk of the material. We show that these pseudo-surface mode frequencies and properties can be modified by temperature and the application of external electric or magnetic fields.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Stamps, Professor Robert
• Authors: Gunawan, V., and Stamps, R.L.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• Journal Name: Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter
• ISSN: 0953-8984
• ISSN (Online): 1361-648X