Abstract
Remanent states and reversal behavior of nanopatterned spin-valve elements have been investigated using off-axis electron holography and Lorentz microscopy. Arrays of 30-nm-thick Co∕Cu∕Py (12, 6, and 12nm, respectively) slotted rings with typical outer diameters ranging from 300to600nm and slot angles of 30°, 60°, and 90° were fabricated by electron-beam lithography. Flux-closure configurations, with zero or one vortex, were the most common remanent states when magnetic fields were applied perpendicular to the slot direction. More complex configurations were introduced for fields parallel to the slot direction. Slotted nanorings with 300∕100nm of outer or inner diameter had the most uniform remanent configuration of fully closed flux. Holographic phase images confirmed that the Co and Py layers were coupled in opposite directions at remanence to minimize demagnetization energy. Magnetization reversal processes were investigated: the in-plane switching fields needed to fully reverse both ferromagnetic layers were typically on the order of 600Oe.
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.
