Hexagonal yttrium manganite: A review on synthesis methods, physical properties and applications

Hexagonal rare-earth manganites have attracted considerable interest due to their complex multiferroic properties, and they possess a spontaneous electric polarization and may be utilized in various technological applications ranging from solar cells to non-volatile memories and light polarizers. The narrow bandgap of hexagonal rare-earth manganite-based compounds can perform remarkable optical anisotropy properties, which make these very efficient photovoltaic materials in parallel with the widely used TiO2-based materials. Substantial enlargement of the traditional field of hexagonal rare-earth manganite photocatalysis also arose in the last decade. This article imparts an extensive review of the rational synthesis, optical properties, structural characterization, and applications of hexagonal rare-earth manganite. Fundamental properties of hexagonal rare-earth perovskite manganite are also emphasized, and a range of unique applications in photocatalysis and photovoltaics are discussed. Eventually, we wind up this review with some linear perspectives and future research in this area. (c) 2022 Chinese Society of Rare Earths. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.