We present a model for reverse domain nucleation in ferroelectrics, which takes into account ferroelectric-electrode coupling in both homogeneous and random cases. The model provides a solution to the coercivity paradox—i.e., the large discrepancy between the observed and predicted coercive fields, common to many systems. We demonstrate the possibility of not thermally activated nucleation of reverse domains. We find that small inhomogeneities in the ferroelectric-electrode interface may lead to an exponentially wide spectrum of waiting times for switching. The model predicts that switching is facilitated near morphotropic phase boundaries in perovskite-type ferroelectrics.

• Received 12 November 2004

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.94.107602