Localized reversible nanoscale phase separation in Pr_0.63Ca_0.37MnO₃ single crystal using a scanning tunneling microscope tip

Abstract

We report the destabilization of the charge ordered insulating (COI) state in a localized region of Pr_0.63Ca_0.37MnO₃ single crystal by current injection using a scanning tunneling microscope tip. This leads to controlled phase separation and formation of localized metallic nanoislands in the COI matrix which have been detected by local tunneling conductance mapping. The metallic regions thus created persist even after reducing the injected current to lower values. The original conductance state can be restored by injecting a current of similar magnitude but of opposite polarity. We thus achieve reversible nanoscale phase separation that gives rise to the possibility to "write, read, and erase" nanosized conducting regions in an insulating matrix with high spatial resolution.