Spin-orbit torque rectifier for weak RF energy harvesting

Abstract

We propose a rectifier concept, simultaneously utilizing the Hall effect and the spin-orbit-torque, that is well matched to the low impedance of antennas. This rectifier is promising for general radio detection and, particularly, for harvesting ambient weak radio signals, where conventional rectification fails to operate. The Hall effect and spin-orbit-torque are both proportional to current density, which improves inversely with the device cross-sectional area, providing a large signal at the nanoscale. A single device made using existing materials can provide 200 μV DC from 500 nW of radio frequency (RF) power. A series array of such devices can efficiently enhance the DC voltage to 300 mV while matching the receiver antenna impedance. Such magnetic devices can convert weak RF power into DC power with substantial efficiency at low voltage and low impedance where conventional semiconductor rectifiers fail.