Selective tuning of order parameters of multiferroic BiFeO3 in picoseconds using midinfrared terahertz laser pulses

Selectively tuning the properties of a material with multiple order parameters, such as polarization and magnetization, requires precise control of the crystal structure. Recently developed midinfrared THz laser techniques provide an efficient way to manipulate the structure of materials at an ultrafast rate. This paper presents a methodology to evaluate the possibility of picosecond multiple switching of order parameters in perovskite structure oxides using first-principles calculations. With multiferroic BiFeO3 as a model system, we demonstrate that the desired property can be tuned by an external laser pulse's perturbation with frequency 15.2 THz. The dynamics of phonon modes are illustrated, revealing that lasers enable switching of polarization and magnetization within 1 ps. The switching mechanisms can be attributed to the nonlinear coupling of the pumped infrared-active mode with the ferroelectric and antiferrodistortive modes. Our work provides an initiative for more detailed experimental investigations to explore light control orders and dynamic material design.