Enhanced polarization switching characteristics of HfO₂ ultrathin films via acceptor-donor co-doping

In the realm of ferroelectric memories, HfO₂-based ferroelectrics stand out because of their exceptional CMOS compatibility and scalability. Nevertheless, their switchable polarization and switching speed are not on par with those of perovskite ferroelectrics. It is widely acknowledged that defects play a crucial role in stabilizing the metastable polar phase of HfO₂. Simultaneously, defects also pin the domain walls and impede the switching process, ultimately rendering the sluggish switching of HfO₂. Herein, we present an effective strategy involving acceptor-donor co-doping to effectively tackle this dilemma. Remarkably enhanced ferroelectricity and the fastest switching process ever reported among HfO₂ polar devices are observed in La³⁺-Ta⁵⁺ co-doped HfO₂ ultrathin films. Moreover, robust macro-electrical characteristics of co-doped films persist even at a thickness as low as 3 nm, expanding potential applications of HfO₂ in ultrathin devices. Our systematic investigations further demonstrate that synergistic effects of uniform microstructure and smaller switching barrier introduced by co-doping ensure the enhanced ferroelectricity and shortened switching time. The co-doping strategy offers an effective avenue to control the defect state and improve the ferroelectric properties of HfO₂ films.