Mapping the magnetization fine structure of a lattice of Bloch-type skyrmions in an FeGe thin film

Abstract

Bloch-type magnetic skyrmions are nanoscale vortex-like spin objects that form densely packed lattice arrangements in B20-type chiral magnets in the presence of a magnetic field. Here, we use off-axis electron holography, in combination with an iterative model-based reconstruction algorithm, to study the geometries of the projected in-plane magnetization distributions of individual skyrmions in an FeGe thin film as a function of applied magnetic field. We compare our results with micromagnetic simulations and find a departure from magnetic chirality in the transition regions between adjacent skyrmions when they are in lattice arrangements.