Abstract
Neutron diffraction studies on Dy/Y superlattices grown with the c axis at an angle of approximately 35° to the film plane reveal a coexistence of helical antiferromagnetic order and ferromagnetic order. The coexistence of magnetic phases has been determined to arise from the development during growth of surface facets of the Y buffer layer, which was grown on bcc (211) Ta or Nb substrates. One of the superlattice facets produces an isotropic expansion of the Dy basal plane which favors the helical antiferromagnetic spin configuration, while the other facet causes an anisotropic contraction of the Dy basal plane that favors ferromagnetism. The net result of the growth anomaly is the apparent coexistence of the two magnetic states as observed by neutron scans made with the scattering vector oriented parallel to the nominal c crystal axis of the superlattice.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
