Electric-field-induced domain switching in the charge/orbital-ordered state of manganite La_0.5 Sr_1.5 MnO₄

Domain switching in the charge/orbital-ordered state of La_0.5 Sr_1.5 MnO₄, which can be manipulated by applying an electric field, was studied by in situ transmission electron microscopy. Dark-field images revealed the formation of micrometer-scale charge/orbital-ordered domains on cooling, which were separated by a clearly defined, meandering interface. Applying a uniaxial electric field aided the growth of a domain with its orbital chain (i.e., the direction of easy electron hopping) parallel to the applied field. These observations provide useful information for understanding of the switching mechanism of charge/orbital- ordered domains in manganite.