Avalanche Dynamics in Ferroelastics and Ferroelectrics
Ekhard Salje, University of Cambridge
Domains in ferroelastic and ferroelectric materials appear to move smoothly under applied stress or electric fields. A more careful analysis shows that this is not true when the movement is not averaged by the observational method. In fact, virtually all movements are 'jerky' and follow avalanche statistics. I will discuss the main characteristics of such avalanches and their importance for the investigation of defect structures.
Domains in ferroelastic and ferroelectric materials appear to move smoothly under applied stress or electric fields. A more careful analysis shows that this is not true when the movement is not averaged by the observational method. In fact, virtually all movements are 'jerky' and follow avalanche statistics. I will discuss the main characteristics of such avalanches and their importance for the investigation of defect structures.