Ultrafast Polarization Switching via Laser-activated Ionic Migration in Ferroelectric CuInP$_2$S$_6$

Abstract: As a layered ferroelectric material, CuInP2S6 has garnered significant attention for its robust ferroelectric state and potential applications in memory devices. In this work, we demonstrate that with short laser pulses ultrafast reversible polarization switching within hundreds of femtoseconds can be achieved in ferroelectric CuInP$_2$S$_6$. Specifically, photoexcitation triggers collective ionic migration and ferroelectricity reversal in CuInP$_2$S$_6$, revealing a novel pathway to access different ferroelectric phases through optical excitation. Our findings indicate that laser pulses substantially alter the transition barriers, promoting ionic transport facilitated by the photodoping effect. This laser-induced ionic migration proves critical for enabling polarization transitions, offering a novel pathway to explore and control exotic quantum phases. These insights open exciting possibilities for manipulating ferroelectric states and electronic properties on an unprecedented ultrafast timescale.