Ferroelectrovalley in Two-Dimensional Multiferroic Lattices

Engineering the valley index is essential and highly sought for valley physics, but currently, it is exclusively based on the paradigm of the challenging ferrovalley with spin-orientation reversal under a magnetic field. Here, an alternative strategy, i.e., the so-called ferroelectrovalley, is proposed to tackle the insurmountable spin-orientation reversal, which reverses the valley index with the feasible ferroelectricity. Using symmetry arguments and the tight-binding model, the <i>C</i>_2<i>z</i> rotation is unveiled to be able to take the place of time reversal for operating the valley index in two-dimensional multiferroic kagome lattices, which enables a ferroelectricity-engineered valley index, thereby generating the concept of a ferroelectrovalley. Based on first-principles calculations, this concept is further demonstrated in the breathing kagome lattice of single-layer Ti₃Br₈, wherein ferroelectricity couples with the breathing process. These findings open a new direction for valleytronics and 2D materials research.