Spin-current signal amplification by a geometrical ratchet

Abstract

We report the demonstration of spin-current amplification in a lateral spin-valve with a non-local configuration. A geometrical ratchet has been implemented in a non-magnetic nanowire bridging two ferromagnetic nanowires. Such geometry induces a difference in resistivity for diffusive electrons travelling in opposite directions by differentiating the scattering coefficients. This difference amplifies the total spin current by a factor of more than 7. Amplification by a geometrical ratchet can be predicted by simple two channel electrical transport calculations and provides a method to increase the efficiency of pure spin current flow in lateral spin valves.