In situ synthesis and characterization of fine-patterned La and Mn co-doped BiFeO3 film

• La and Mn co-doped BiFeO3 film was prepared by a photosensitive sol–gel method.
• XRD and Raman spectra confirmed single-phase rhombohedral structure with space group R3c.
• Fine-patterned BLFMO film was obtained by a direct-patterning technique.
• The saturation magnetization and Pr were enhanced in the fine-patterned BLFMO film.

La and Mn co-doped BiFeO3 (BLFMO) film was prepared by a photosensitive sol–gel method utilizing bismuth nitrate, lanthanum nitrate, manganese nitrate and ferric nitrate as starting materials. After a chelating reaction between benzoylacetone (BzAcH) and metallic ions, the precursor solution presented photosensitivity. Through a direct patterning process, a fine-patterned BLFMO film was obtained. The phase constituents, morphology, electric and magnetic properties of the as-prepared BLFMO film were characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ferroelectric testing unit, LCR Meter and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The Mn dopant enhanced the saturation magnetization and remnant polarization of the BLFMO film.