Artificial spin ice: Paths forward

Abstract

Artificial spin ice systems are lithographically prepared arrays of interacting nanoscale magnetic moments with collective behavior resulting from the chosen array geometry. These many-body systems are unusual in that their simple constituent elements can be configured to design their interactions with exquisite control. They can then be probed experimentally over a remarkably large range of time scales and length scales, including imaging of the individual moments. The study of artificial spin ice has broadened well beyond the original focus on systems with connection to spin ice and ice models, and now the term is used in reference to many other structures that exhibit a much wider range of physical phenomena. In this Perspective, we review progress in the field of artificial spin ice since its inception more than a decade ago. We then discuss prospects for future directions—continuing the exploration of nanomagnetism, statistical spin models, and the potential for technological devices.