Magnetization reversal of patterned spin-tunnel junction material: a transmission electron microscopy study

Ardhuin, H., Chapman, J.N., Aitchison, P.R., Gillies, M., Kirk, K.J. and Wilkinson, C.D.W. (2000) Magnetization reversal of patterned spin-tunnel junction material: a transmission electron microscopy study. Journal of Applied Physics, 88(5), 2760 -2765. (doi: 10.1063/1.1287410)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.1287410

Abstract

Electron beam lithography and reactive ion etching have been used to pattern micron-size magnetic elements in the free layer of spin-tunnel junctions. The magnetization reversal processes of elements with dimensions in the range from 15x1 mu m(2) to 1x1 mu m(2) have been studied using Lorentz microscopy in the transmission electron microscope. Under the application of a field parallel to the bias direction, elongated elements reverse by the growth and subsequent annihilation of a quasiperiodic domain structure which evolves from the ends of the elements. Similar processes occur in both halves of a magnetization cycle. By contrast, the reversal of square elements involves the formation of more complex domain structures which differ significantly according to the direction in which the field in applied.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Wilkinson, Professor Christopher and Kirk, Dr Katherine
Authors: Ardhuin, H., Chapman, J.N., Aitchison, P.R., Gillies, M., Kirk, K.J., and Wilkinson, C.D.W.
Subjects:Q Science > QC Physics
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:Journal of Applied Physics
ISSN:0021-8979

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