Unusual domain configurations and local piezoresponse in the [720]-cut BaTiO3 single crystal

The domain configurations and local piezoresponse property of the [720]-cut BaTiO3 single crystal and [001]-oriented BaTiO3 crystal were investigated by high-resolution piezoresponse force microscopy. Large differences in their surface topography features, domain configurations and local piezoresponse were found between [720]-cut and [001]-oriented BaTiO3 crystals. The large surface bending angle due to ferroelastic domain walls leads to a high strain energy appearing in the [720]-cut BaTiO3, further resulting in unique band-like topographic features, needle domains for stress compensation and locally ultrahigh piezoelectric response as well. (c) 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, WeinheimMaterials Science, MultidisciplinaryPhysics, AppliedPhysics, Condensed MatterSCI(E)EI2ARTICLE9672-675