Scanning Electron Microscopy of Ferroelectric Domains in Barium Titanate

Ferroelectric domains in single-crystal tetragonal barium titanate have been observed in the scanning electron microscope. Contrast in the image results primarily from the surface topography associated with domains; thus it is possible to observe surface structure associated with 90° domains under high magnification. In the scanning microscope one can observe the disappearance of domain structure above the Curie temperature, as well as domain growth and movement produced by intense electron bombardment. Scanning electron micrographs of as-grown BaTiO2 have revealed surface structure which may correspond to the permanent surface layer which exists on BaTiO3.