| Author(s): |
C Vaz; T Monchesky; John Unguris; E Bauer; S Cherifi; S Heun; A Locatelli; L J. Heyderman; Z Cui; J Bland; |
| Title: |
Spin Configuration and Classification of Switching Processes in Ferromagnetic Rings Down to Sub-100 nm Dimensions |
| Published: |
May 01, 2004 |
| Abstract: |
The magnetic states and switching processes are investigated in Co and NiFe rings with lateral dimensions from the micrometer range down to sub-100 nm. Using non-intrusive imaging techniques we have directly observed the nanoscopic details of the magnetization configurations of epitaxial and polycrystalline mesoscopic ring structures with <15 nm resolution. We have found head-to-head domain walls with different spin structures depending on ring width. Further, we can classify the geometry-dependent switching processes according to the number of transitions (single, double, triple) that a ring undergoes in a hysteresis cycle. In the case of triple switching we find a novel state with a complete vortex core present in the ring. It is found that the double switching can be retained in sub-100 nm rings by tailoring the material and thickness. |
| Citation: |
Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials |
| Volume: |
272-276 |
| Issue: |
3 |
| Pages: |
pp. 1631 - 1636 |
| Keywords: |
magnetic;magnetic imagin;magnetic switching;micromagnetics;rings |
| Research Areas: |
Nanomagnetics |
