Brightened Optical Transition Hinting to Strong Spin-lattice Coupling in a Layered Antiferromagnet

Materials known as multiferroics exhibit more than one primary ferroic order in a given phase. The coexistence of multiple physical phases is highly interesting because through coupling of these orders deterministic control and understanding of the origin of states of matter is possible. The coexistence of multiple physical states is fascinating because it allows for deterministic control and a deeper understanding of the origins of states of matter through the interaction of these orders. The compound, a two-dimensional layered antiferromagnetic semiconductor, has already attracted interest because of its exceptional tunability through external electric fields, offering an unprecedented platform to tailor interactions between spin and charge degree of freedom.
Upon entering the antiferromagnetic state, the researchers observed a new luminescent transition with peculiar energetic and polarization characteristics. This discovery shed light on the fluorescence pathway of photoexcited carriers and revealed that this brightened transition correlates with an enhanced non-linear optical response in the material. These findings can be attributed to the emergence of a strong in-plane electrical polarization when the material enters the magnetic state.

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https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202408343