Empirical approach to measuring interface energies in mixed-phase bismuth ferrite

In complex oxide heteroepitaxy, strain engineering is a powerful tool to obtain phases in thin films that may be otherwise unstable bulk. A successful example of this approach mixed phase bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) epitaxial films. The coexistence tetragonal-like (T-like) matrix and rhombohedral-like (R-like) striations provides an enhanced electromechanical response, along with other attractive functional behaviors. paper, we compare the energetics associated two thickness dependent relaxation mechanisms system: domain walls arising from monoclinic distortion T-like phase, interphase boundary between host tilted R-like phases. Combining x-ray diffraction measurements scanning probe microscopy, extract quantitative values using empirical energy balance approach. wall energies are found 113 $\pm$ 21 426 23 mJ.m$^{-2}$, respectively. These numerical estimates will help us realize designer boundaries multiferroics, which possess colossal responses external stimuli, for diverse range applications.