Electric-field modulation of magnetic skyrmions in a two-dimensional multiferroic
Phys. Rev. B 113, 184422 – Published 6 May, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/2vg7-6f8s
Abstract
Magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroics provides a low-energy means of manipulating magnetic spin textures, including topological ones such as skyrmions, using an electric field instead of a current. However, existing demonstrations were realized in multiferroic heterostructures, relying on ferroelectric switching of one of the constituents and the interface effects. Here, by combining first-principles calculations, symmetry analysis, Monte Carlo and spin-dynamics simulations, we predict a two-dimensional multiferroic material with multiple mechanisms of spin-induced ferroelectricity, and then demonstrate the electric-field control of skyrmions. We further identify the mechanism of spin-induced ferroelectricity most relevant to skyrmion manipulation, providing a more general design strategy for realizing electric-field control of skyrmions in single-phase multiferroic materials.
