Switchable photovoltaic response in hexagonal LuMnO₃ single crystals

Hexagonal manganites, such as h-LuMnO3, are ferroelectric with its polar axis along the hexagonal and have a narrow electronic bandgap (≈1.5 eV). Using Pt electrodes, h-LuMnO3 single crystals display strong rectification, characteristic of Schottky diode, large photoresponse. It is found that short circuit photocurrent density Jsc modulated (up to 25%) by direction polarization P, leading loop mimics polarization. However, non-switchable persists. Diffusion shown dominate current-in-plane measurements contributes Jsc. This observation illustrates dramatic role optical absorption in manganites. The accompanying dichroism might challenge disentangling genuine bulk photovoltaic response crystals, contributing Epitaxial thin films may offer suitable alternative.