Characterization of a Disordered Above Room Temperature Skyrmion Material Co8Zn8Mn4

• Published in: arXiv.org 2020-10
• Main Authors: Henderson, M E, Beare, J, Sharma, S, Bleuel, M, Clancy, P, Cory, D G, Huber, M G, Marjerrison, C A, Pula, M, Sarenac, D, Smith, E M, Zhernenkov, K, Luke, G M, Pushin, D A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Backscattering; Broken symmetry; Cobalt; Diffraction patterns; Hypothetical particles; Low currents; Magnetic permeability; Magnetism; Magnetization curves; Neutron diffraction; Neutron scattering; Neutrons; Particle theory; Room temperature; X ray powder diffraction; Zinc
• ISSN: 2331-8422
• DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2010.11174

Topologically non trivial spin textures host great promise for future spintronic applications. Skyrmions in particular are of burgeoning interest owing to their nanometric size, topological protection, and high mobility via ultra-low current densities. It has been previously reported through magnetic susceptibility, microscopy, and scattering techniques that Co\(_{8}\)Zn\(_{8}\)Mn\(_{4}\) forms an above room temperature triangular skyrmion lattice. Here we report the synthesis procedure and characterization of a polycrystalline Co\(_{8}\)Zn\(_{8}\)Mn\(_{4}\) bulk sample. We employ powder x-ray diffraction, backscatter Laue diffraction, and neutron diffraction as characterization tools of the crystallinity of the samples, while magnetic susceptibility and Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) measurements are performed to study the skyrmion phase. Magnetic susceptibility measurements show a dip anomaly in the magnetization curves which persists over a range of approximately 305 K- 315 K. SANS measurements reveal a rotationally disordered polydomain skymrion lattice. Applying a recently developed symmetry-breaking magnetic field sequence, we were able to orient and order the previously jammed state to yield the prototypical hexagonal diffraction patterns, with secondary diffraction rings.