1. Micromagnetic modeling of domain structures in magnetic thin films

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the theory of micromagnetic modeling along with computation methods and presents the comparisons of various simulation results with experimental observations. The chapter focuses on the relation between observations and modeling results. The examples of simulated domain structures in various patterned thin film elements are illustrated in the chapter. An example of utilizing micromagnetic modeling to aid the engineering of thin film microstructure is presented in the chapter. Micromagnetic modeling is a powerful tool for understanding the magnetization processes in magnetic films and thin film devices, thereby providing guidelines to material microstructure engineering and device design. However, experimental verifications are often needed to ensure the validity of the modeling results. Magnetic imaging techniques, such as magnetic force microscopy and various transmission electron microscopy techniques, not only can provide direct understanding of the micromagnetic behavior but also help provide comparisons for either verifying a modeling study or for changing or revising the model. The dynamic approach in micromagnetic modeling is sometimes critical. The inclusion of gyromagnetic motion is often absolutely necessary.