Emergent phenomena at multiferroic heterointerfaces

The coupling and reconstruction of electronic degrees of freedom (such as charge, spin and orbital) at a heterointerface can lead to unexpected and exotic states of matter. In this study, using model systems consisting of multiferroic BiFeO3 and ferromagnetic La0.7Sr0.3MnO 3, we review the current understanding of a novel interfacial magnetic state formed at the interface, and highlight some possible mechanisms responsible for this interesting phenomenon and identify open questions for future studies. © 2012 The Royal Society.