Exchange-bias and exchange-spring coupling in manganite nanostructures

Abstract

Magnetic exchange bias (EB) is a common phenomenon in manganite nanosystems. However, the development of a general theory has been hampered by the uncertain nature of interfaces between different magnetic phases, commonly between an antiferromagnetic phase and a ferromagnetic or spin-glass phase. Here, a robust hard/soft magnetic phase coupling was observed in manganite Na0.44−δLiδMnO2 nanoribbons. A double-domain model with a hard/soft magnetic phase interaction associated with Li-ion doping is suggested to account for the EB effect. This observation is important not only for understanding the physical origin of EB in manganese oxide nanosystems but also for their application in spintronic devices.