Dynamics of the antiferromagnetic skyrmion induced by a magnetic anisotropy gradient

Abstract

The dynamics of antiferromagnets is a current hot topic in condensed matter physics and spintronics. However, the dynamics of insulating antiferromagnets cannot be excited by an electric current, which is a method usually used to manipulate ferromagnetic metals. Here, we propose to use the voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy gradient as an excitation source to manipulate insulating antiferromagnetic textures. We analytically and numerically study the dynamics of an antiferromagnetic skyrmion driven by a magnetic anisotropy gradient. Our analytical calculations demonstrate that such a magnetic anisotropy gradient can effectively drive an antiferromagnetic skyrmion towards the area of lower magnetic anisotropy. The micromagnetic simulations are in good agreement with our analytical solution. Furthermore, the magnetic anisotropy gradient induced velocity of an antiferromagnetic skyrmion is compared with that of a ferromagnetic skyrmion. Our results are useful for the understanding of antiferromagnetic skyrmion dynamics and may open a new way for the design of antiferromagnetic spintronic devices.