Magnetic-field induced multiferroicity in a quantum critical frustrated spin liquid

Abstract

Dielectric spectroscopy is used to check for the onset of polar order in the quasi one-dimensional quantum spin system Sul-Cu2Cl4 when passing from the spin-liquid state into the ordered spiral phase in an external magnetic field. We find clear evidence for multiferroicity in this material and treat in detail its H-T phase diagram close to the quantum-critical regime.

5 pages, 4 figures. Revised according to suggestions of referees