Magnetic domains in multilayered amorphous Co-P alloys

Abstract

A thorough study has been made of the magnetic structure of electrodeposited multilayered amorphous Co-P alloys. An unconventional electrolytic process has been used, employing a rectangular alternating current. The samples produced in this way are multilayered, and these layers are separated by very thin boundaries that have a greater P concentration. The results suggest that there is 'exchange interaction' between the layers. It has also been observed that the period and amplitude of the zig-zag of the 'charged walls' is strongly affected by a small energy variation. The origin of the in-plane magnetic anisotropy of the samples has also been investigated. Magnetic anisotropy is very susceptible to magnetic annealing. The results suggest that the authors are dealing with anisotropy induced by directional order.