Anomalous induction of ferroelectric polarization by magnetization reversal in the phase-separated multiferroic manganite Eu_0.8Y_0.2MnO₃

Regarding electronic phase separation and its magnetoelectric control in multiferroics, we have investigated magnetic and ferroelectric properties of Eu_0.8Y_0.2MnO₃ located near the boundary between a ferromagnetic phase and a ferroelectric phase. We observed special coexistence of the two phases, which fractions are tuned at an arbitrary level by changing the cooling magnetic-field strength. In addition, repeated magnetization reversals by applying an alternating magnetic field induce anomalous enhancement of ferroelectric polarization, suggesting the development of the ferroelectric phase during the magnetization reversal process.