IMF2017

In a magnetic system that has a strong spin-phonon coupling, i.e., a strong dependence of the polar phonon frequencies on spin order, the magnetic order may be capable of tipping the balance between paraelectric and ferroelectric states. This strong spin-phonon coupling effect is promising to be used to search for new multiferroics. An theoretical approach was developed to calculate reliable spin-phonon coupling effect in several complex oxides and we will discuss the prospects for bulk and superlattice forms to be useful as multiferroics. By combining first-principles calculation and inelastic neutron scattering measurement, the spin-phonon coupling effect and lattice instabilities in complex oxides will be discussed.