Heterostructures for realizing magnon-induced spin transfer torque

Abstract

This work reports efforts fabricating heterostructures of different materials relevant for the realization of magnon-induced spin transfer torques. We find the growth of high-quality magnetite on MgO substrates to be straightforward, while using transition metal buffer layers of Fe, Cr, Mo, and Nb can alter the structural and magnetic properties of the magnetite. Additionally, we successfully fabricated and characterized Py/Cr/Fe 3O 4 and Fe 3O 4/Cr/Fe 3O 4 spin valve structures. For both, we observe a relatively small giant magnetoresistance and confirm an inverse dependence on spacer layer thickness. Thus, we have shown certain materials combinations that may form the heterostructures that are the building blocks necessary to achieve magnon-induced spin transfer torque devices. Copyright 2012 P. B. Jayathilaka et al.