Ferroelectric switching assisted by laser illumination

We explore the fascinating dynamics of ferroelectric materials under illumination, which holds great potential to advance the field of optoferroelectricity. First, we introduce a general Hamiltonian-based model to explain how light exposure weakens ferroelectric polarity and reduces potential barriers in a ferroelectric system. Second, the properties and the dynamic evolution process of ferroelectric BaTiO₃ and SnTe under illumination are investigated using the first-principles methods, validating our model. The results demonstrate that illumination induces the redistribution of charge density and the reorganization of potential energy surface, thereby driving the transition from ferroelectric to paraelectric phases. Our findings reveal the potential for light-modulated ferroelectric memory and could propel the development of advanced ferroelectric devices. This study, therefore, represents a key step toward a comprehensive understanding of optoferroelectricity and its potential applications.