Abstract
We examine the role of Mn diffusion in the thermal stability of tunneling spin polarization P by directly measuring P of Al∕AlOx∕Co∕FeMn and Al∕AlOx∕Co90Fe10∕FeMn junctions using superconducting tunneling spectroscopy (STS). We confirm Mn diffusion in our junctions using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy after an ultrahigh vacuum 500°C anneal. Surprisingly, and in contrast to the current belief, no drop in P is observed using STS. Therefore, though Mn diffuses significantly, it cannot be solely responsible for the drop in tunneling magnetoresistance observed after postdeposition anneals above 300°C.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
