Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation
  • Editors' Suggestion

Superlubric Motion of Wavelike Domain Walls in Sliding Ferroelectrics

Changming Ke1,2, Fucai Liu3,4, and Shi Liu1,2,*

  • *Contact author: liushi@westlake.edu.cn

Phys. Rev. Lett. 135, 046201 – Published 21 July, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/jhlq-2dd7

Abstract

Sliding ferroelectrics constructed from stacked nonpolar monolayers enable out-of-plane polarization in two dimensions with exceptional properties. However, the widely accepted switching mechanism, involving synchronized long-distance in-plane translation of entire atomic layers, contradicts experimental findings. We demonstrate that this spinodal decompositionlike homogeneous switching process violates Neumann’s principle and is therefore highly improbable. Instead, polarization reversal relies on symmetry-breaking domain walls (DWs) and the tensorial nature of Born effective charges, highlighting the quantum nature of sliding ferroelectrics. We reveal that wide, wavelike DWs coherently propagate, a stark departure from the narrow DW mechanism recognized for decades. These wavelike DWs exhibit superlubric dynamics, achieving ultrahigh velocities of approximately 4000  m/s at room temperature and displaying an anomalous cooling-promoted switching speed. The unexpected emergence of DW superlubricity presents new avenues for enhancing key performance metrics and offers exciting opportunities for applications in cryogenic environments.

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

See Also

Soliton-like domain wall motion in sliding ferroelectrics with ultralow damping

Yubai Shi, Yuxiang Gao, Hua Wang, Bingwen Zhang, Zhicheng Zhong, and Ri He
Phys. Rev. B 112, 035421 (2025)

Authorization Required

We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

Supplemental Material (Subscription Required)

References (Subscription Required)

Outline

Information

Sign In to Your Journals Account

Filter

Filter

Article Lookup

Enter a citation