Ferroelectric phase transformations in the spinodal decomposition framework

Abstract

This perspective reviews phase transitions in ferroelectric topologies through a spinodal decomposition framework. It focuses on the thermodynamic and kinetic pathways that determine non-trivial topological phases and their evolution. By drawing analogy to chemical spinodal decomposition and martensitic transition in metals, phase diagrams and continuous cooling curves are constructed to explain topological domain transformations in ferroelectrics, including labyrinthine, stripe and bubble domains. The effects of cooling rate, electric field, temperature are explored to reveal how external factors influence domain patterns. This review ends with practical guidance for tuning and refining domain structures. This perspective presents a framework for understanding ferroelectric topological phase transformations through the lens of spinodal decomposition. By drawing analogies to chemical spinodal systems and martensitic transitions, it reveals how cooling rates, electric fields, temperature govern the evolution of labyrinthine, stripe, and bubble domains, providing practical guidance for domain engineering.