Spin-scattering asymmetry at half-metallic-ferromagnet|ferromagnet interface

Abstract

We study spin-scattering asymmetry at the interface of two ferromagnets (FMs) based on a half-metallic ${\mathrm{Co}}_{2}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{0.4}{\mathrm{Mn}}_{0.6}\mathrm{Si}$ (CFMS)/CoFe interface. First-principles ballistic transport calculations based on Landauer formula for (001)-CoFe/CFMS/CoFe indicate strong spin-dependent conductance at the CFMS/CoFe interface, suggesting a large interface spin-scattering asymmetry coefficient ($\ensuremath{\gamma}$). Fully epitaxial current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance (CPP-GMR) pseudo-spin-valve (PSV) devices involving CoFe/CFMS/Ag/CFMS/CoFe structures exhibit an enhancement in MR output owing to the formation of the CFMS/CoFe interface at room temperature (RT). This is well reproduced qualitatively by a simulation based on a generalized two-current series-resistor model with considering the presence of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ at the CFMS/CoFe interface, half-metallicity of CFMS, and combinations of terminated atoms at the interfaces in the CPP-GMR PSV structure. We show direct evidence for a large $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ at a half-metallic FM/FM interface and its impact on the CPP-GMR effect even at RT.