Influence of interlayer exchange coupling on ultrafast laser-induced magnetization reversal in ferromagnetic spin valves

In this study, we explore the influence of interlayer exchange coupling on magnetization reversal triggered by femtosecond laser pulses in ferromagnetic spin valves. Our experiments, focused on femtosecond laser-induced magnetization reversal, methodically vary the thickness of the copper (Cu) space...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Physical review. B 2024-03, Vol.109 (9), Article 094422
Main Authors: Igarashi, Junta, Le Guen, Yann, Hohlfeld, Julius, Mangin, Stéphane, Gorchon, Jon, Hehn, Michel, Malinowski, Grégory
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Condensed Matter
Physics
Citations: Items that this one cites
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:In this study, we explore the influence of interlayer exchange coupling on magnetization reversal triggered by femtosecond laser pulses in ferromagnetic spin valves. Our experiments, focused on femtosecond laser-induced magnetization reversal, methodically vary the thickness of the copper (Cu) spacer layer. We identify a critical Cu thickness threshold at 2.32 nm. Above this threshold, a stable reversed magnetic domain is consistently generated upon exposure to a single laser pulse. Conversely, with a Cu spacer thinner than 2.32 nm, the observed magnetization reversal from parallel (P) to antiparallel states occurs only under continuous laser irradiation. Once the laser is stopped, the magnetic configuration relaxes back to its initial P state, influenced by ferromagnetic exchange coupling. This research enhances our understanding of the mechanisms that drive optically induced ultrafast magnetization reversal in ferromagnetic spin valves.
ISSN:2469-9950
2469-9969
DOI:10.1103/PhysRevB.109.094422