This book explores ferroic crystals, focusing on the intricate relationship between their macroscopic properties and microscopic phenomena. Ferroic materials, characterized by hysteresis cycles that link magnetization, polarization, and deformation to their respective fields, are pivotal in understanding and advancing various technological applications.

For the first time, this volume presents experimental evidence directly linking macroscopic responses to microscopic interface phenomenadomains, domain walls, and phase frontsoffering unprecedented clarity into the inner workings of ferroic systems. Simultaneous observations of domains, susceptibility measurements, and gamma diffractometry reveal how these microscopic structures govern the shape and coercive fields of hysteresis cycles, especially at first-order phase transitions.

The book bridges the gap between macroscopic measurements and nanoscopic insights, highlighting how domain interactions influence susceptibility through both short- and long-range effects, including freezing processes, isolated walls, and events occurring within the walls themselves. It further demonstrates how domain wall interactionsoften overlooked in theoretical modelsplay a critical role in the reversal of ferroic order parameters.

Special attention is given to the interplay between ferroelasticity and ferroelectricity, delving into energy dynamics, phase transitions, and thermodynamic models. Notably, the manipulation of chemical, mechanical, and electrostatic energies in first-order transitions is shown to affect the shape of phase fronts, which may appear as planes, factory roof geometries, or even fractal patterns, and may include periodic inclusions of one phase in another.

With clear explanations, visual demonstrations, and practical experimental insights, the book caters to researchers and students aiming to deepen their understanding of these phenomena. Designed for both seasoned scientists and budding researchers, it integrates experimental data, simulation results, and theoretical models to provide a holistic understanding of ferroic crystals, their behaviors, and their applications in modern science and technology.

Provides a detailed analysis of how nanoscopic domain dynamics influence macroscopic ferroic properties Integrates thermodynamic models, experimental data, and visualizations to offer a comprehensive perspective Examines energy dynamics, phase transitions, and hysteresis in-depth for researchers and students

Autorentext

Jean Lilensten, PhD, is a permanent researcher at the Planetary Laboratory (Grenoble, France). He has been involved in space weather researches from the very beginning of this emerging area. He takes a very active part in its organization in Europe: he participates in different Space Weather actions with public and private partners (ESA, CNES, Alcatel, European Union...). He is the coordinator of the European Coordination action in Science and Technology devoted to Space Weather. He is also a member of the scientific staff of several instruments used in Space Weather studies (interferometer, radar, space instruments). "Environment, Societies and Space Weather" is his fifth scientific book. Jean Bornarel, PhD, is Professor in Physics at the Joseph Fourier University of Grenoble and a Solid State Physics specialist. This book benefits from his great experience on teaching strategies.

Inhalt

Introduction.- Ferroelectricity and Ferroelasticity.- Natural Domain Textures.- Switching Process and Hysteresis Cycles.- Susceptibilities and domains.- Phase Fronts and Domains.- Phase Coexistence with External Conjugate Field.- Annexes.- Conclusion.