Abstract
Vortices are fundamental magnetic topological structures characterized by a curling magnetization around a highly stable nanometric core. The control of the polarization of this core and its gyration is key to the utilization of vortices in technological applications. So far polarization control has been achieved in single-material structures using magnetic fields, spin-polarized currents or spin waves. Here we demonstrate local control of the vortex core orientation in hybrid structures where the vortex in an in-plane Permalloy film coexists with out-of-plane maze domains in a Co/Pd multilayer. The vortex core reverses its polarization on crossing a maze domain boundary. This reversal is mediated by a pair of magnetic singularities, known as Bloch points, and leads to the transient formation of a three-dimensional magnetization structure: a Bloch core. The interaction between vortex and domain wall thus acts as a nanoscale switch for the vortex core polarization.
Highlights
Vortices are fundamental magnetic topological structures characterized by a curling magnetization around a highly stable nanometric core
We elucidate the influence of the magnetic domains in the Co/Pd multilayer on the vortex core dynamics and show that the reversal is a complex three-dimensional process mediated by the formation of a magnetic discontinuity that connects two Bloch points, which we call a Bloch core
To investigate the dynamics in the hybrid system, we fabricated square thin film structures consisting of a 50 nm thick Permalloy (Py) layer with 3 mm and 5 mm side length deposited on top of a Co/Pd multilayer (Fig. 2a)
Summary
Vortices are fundamental magnetic topological structures characterized by a curling magnetization around a highly stable nanometric core. Imaging the out-of-plane component of the magnetization of the Py layer reveals the vortex core and the presence of an imprinted maze domain state (Fig. 2d).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
