The magnetization profile induced by the double magnetic proximity effect in an Fe/Fe0.30V0.70 superlattice

Abstract

The double magnetic proximity effect (MPE) in an Fe/Fe0.30V0.70 superlattice is studied by a direct measurement of the magnetization profile using polarized neutron reflectivity. The experimental magnetization profile is shown to qualitatively agree with a profile calculated using density functional theory. The profile is divided into a short range interfacial part and a long range tail. The interfacial part is explained by charge transfer and induced magnetization, while the tail is attributed to the inhomogeneous nature of the FeV alloy. The long range tail in the magnetization persists up to 170% above the intrinsic ordering temperature of the FeV alloy. The observed effects can be used to design systems with a direct exchange coupling between layers over long distances through a network of connected atoms. When combined with the recent advances in tuning and switching, the MPE with electric fields and currents, the results can be applied in spintronic devices.