Showing 1–50 of 93 results for author: Suess, D

k-Selective Electrical-to-Magnon Transduction with Realistic Field-distributed Nanoantennas

Authors: Andreas Höfinger, Andrey A. Voronov, David Schmoll, Sabri Koraltan, Florian Bruckner, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess, Morris Lindner, Timmy Reimann, Carsten Dubs, Andrii V. Chumak, Sebastian Knauer

Abstract: The excitation and detection of propagating spin waves with lithographed nanoantennas underpin both classical magnonic circuits and emerging quantum technologies. Here, we establish a framework for all-electrical propagating spin-wave spectroscopy (AEPSWS) that links realistic electromagnetic drive fields to micromagnetic dynamics. Using finite-element (FE) simulations, we compute the full vector… ▽ More The excitation and detection of propagating spin waves with lithographed nanoantennas underpin both classical magnonic circuits and emerging quantum technologies. Here, we establish a framework for all-electrical propagating spin-wave spectroscopy (AEPSWS) that links realistic electromagnetic drive fields to micromagnetic dynamics. Using finite-element (FE) simulations, we compute the full vector near-field of electrical impedance-matched, tapered coplanar and stripline antennas and import this distribution into finite-difference (FD) micromagnetic solvers. This approach captures the antenna-limited wave-vector spectrum and the component-selective driving fields (perpendicular to the static magnetisation) that simplified uniform-field models cannot. From this coupling, we derive how realistic current return paths and tapering shapes, k-weighting functions, for Damon-Eshbach surface spin waves in yttrium-iron-garnet (YIG) films are, for millimetre-scale matched CPWs and linear tapers down to nanometre-scale antennas. Validation against experimental AEPSWS on a $48\,nm$ YIG film shows quantitative agreement in dispersion ridges, group velocities, and spectral peak positions, establishing that the antenna acts as a tunable k-space filter. These results provide actionable design rules for on-chip magnonic transducers, with immediate relevance for low-power operation regimes and prospective applications in quantum magnonics. △ Less

Submitted 13 November, 2025; originally announced November 2025.

Controlling bubble and skyrmion lattice order and dynamics via stripe domain engineering in ferrimagnetic Fe/Gd multilayers

Authors: Tim Titze, Sabri Koraltan, Timo Schmidt, Mailin Matthies, Amalio Fernández-Pacheco, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht, Stefan Mathias, Daniel Steil

Abstract: Ferrimagnetic Fe/Gd multilayers host maze-like stripe domains that transform into a disordered bubble/skyrmion lattice under out-of-plane magnetic fields at ambient temperature. Femtosecond magneto-optics distinguishes these textures via their distinct coherent breathing dynamics. Crucially, applying a brief in-plane ``set'' magnetic field to the stripe state enhances both frequency and amplitude… ▽ More Ferrimagnetic Fe/Gd multilayers host maze-like stripe domains that transform into a disordered bubble/skyrmion lattice under out-of-plane magnetic fields at ambient temperature. Femtosecond magneto-optics distinguishes these textures via their distinct coherent breathing dynamics. Crucially, applying a brief in-plane ``set'' magnetic field to the stripe state enhances both frequency and amplitude of the bubble/skyrmion lattice breathing mode. Lorentz transmission electron microscopy, magnetic force microscopy, and micromagnetic simulations reveal that this enhancement arises from field-aligned stripes nucleating a dense, near-hexagonal bubble/skyrmion lattice upon out-of-plane field application, with strong indications for a pure skyrmion lattice. Thus, modifying the initial domain configuration by in-plane fields enables precise control of coherent magnetization dynamics on picosecond to nanosecond timescales and potentially even of topology. △ Less

Submitted 24 October, 2025; originally announced October 2025.

Comments: 8 pages, 7 figures

Modeling Magnetoelastic Wave Interactions in Magnetic Films and Heterostructures: A finite-difference approach

Authors: Peter Flauger, Matthias Küß, Michael Karl Steinbauer, Florian Bruckner, Bernhard Emhofer, Emeline Nysten, Matthias Weiß, Dieter Suess, Hubert J. Krenner, Manfred Albrecht, Claas Abert

Abstract: The (inverse) magnetostrictive effect in ferromagnets couples the magnetic properties to the mechanical stress, allowing for an interaction between the magnetic and mechanical degrees of freedom. In this work, we present a time-integration scheme for the self-consistent simulation of coupled magnetoelastic dynamics within the framework of finite-difference micromagnetism. The proposed implementati… ▽ More The (inverse) magnetostrictive effect in ferromagnets couples the magnetic properties to the mechanical stress, allowing for an interaction between the magnetic and mechanical degrees of freedom. In this work, we present a time-integration scheme for the self-consistent simulation of coupled magnetoelastic dynamics within the framework of finite-difference micromagnetism. The proposed implementation extends the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation by a strain-induced effective field and concurrently solves the elastic equation of motion, while correctly incorporating stress and strain discontinuities at material interfaces. We then present a comprehensive set of examples, ranging from static stress configurations over material boundaries to simulations of surface acoustic wave attenuation in magnetically structured thin and thick films. These computational experiments both validate the implementation and underscore the importance of properly handling jump and boundary conditions in magnon-phonon interaction studies. △ Less

Submitted 7 September, 2025; originally announced September 2025.

Exchange spin-wave propagation in Ga:YIG nanowaveguides

Authors: Andrey A. Voronov, Khrystyna O. Levchenko, Roman Verba, Kristýna Davídková, Carsten Dubs, Michal Urbánek, Qi Wang, Dieter Suess, Claas Abert, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: Spin-wave-based computing has emerged as a promising approach to overcome the fundamental limitations of CMOS technologies. However, the increasing demand for device miniaturization down to a 100 nm scale presents significant challenges for long-distance spin-wave transport. Gallium-substituted yttrium iron garnet (Ga:YIG) offers a potential solution to these challenges due to its unique magnetic… ▽ More Spin-wave-based computing has emerged as a promising approach to overcome the fundamental limitations of CMOS technologies. However, the increasing demand for device miniaturization down to a 100 nm scale presents significant challenges for long-distance spin-wave transport. Gallium-substituted yttrium iron garnet (Ga:YIG) offers a potential solution to these challenges due to its unique magnetic properties. The reduced saturation magnetization in Ga:YIG enables efficient excitation of exchange-dominated spin waves, which exhibit enhanced transport characteristics compared to dipolar-dominated modes in conventional materials. Here, we present the first comprehensive study combining experimental, analytical, and numerical investigations of spin-wave propagation in Ga:YIG waveguides down to 145 nm width and 73 nm thickness. Using micro-focused Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy, TetraX simulations, and analytical dispersion calculations, we demonstrate that Ga:YIG waveguides support spin waves with significantly higher group velocities up to 600 m/s. This value remains constant for structures with different widths, leading to longer spin-wave propagation lengths in nanowaveguides compared to non-substituted YIG. These results reveal that gallium substitution provides access to faster and longer-lived spin waves, opening new possibilities for implementing this material in nanoscale magnonic devices. △ Less

Submitted 8 September, 2025; v1 submitted 5 September, 2025; originally announced September 2025.

Ultrafast Laser-Induced Magnetic Relaxation in Artificial Spin Ice Driven by Dipolar Interactions

Authors: D. Pecchio, S. Sahoo, O. Chubykalo-Fesenko, S. Koraltan, G. M. Macauley, T. Thomson, D. Suess, V. Scagnoli, L. J. Heyderman

Abstract: It is of great interest to develop methods to rapidly and effectively control the magnetic configurations in artificial spin ices, which are arrangements of dipolar coupled nanomagnets that have a variety of fascinating collective magnetic phenomena associated with them. This is not only valuable in terms of acquiring fundamental understanding but is also important for future high-performance appl… ▽ More It is of great interest to develop methods to rapidly and effectively control the magnetic configurations in artificial spin ices, which are arrangements of dipolar coupled nanomagnets that have a variety of fascinating collective magnetic phenomena associated with them. This is not only valuable in terms of acquiring fundamental understanding but is also important for future high-performance applications. Here, we demonstrate ultrafast control of magnetic relaxation in square artificial spin ice through femtosecond laser pulsed excitation, enabling rapid access to low-energy states via dipolar interactions. Time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements reveal that, after laser-induced demagnetization, the magnetization recovers within picoseconds. During this brief transient window, dipolar coupling drives a collective magnetic ordering. Ex-situ magnetic force microscopy confirms the emergence of extended Type I vertex domains, characteristic of ground-state ordering, thus establishing ultrafast laser-driven relaxation as a route to attain the low-energy states. Through complementary energy barrier calculations and micromagnetic simulations incorporating Landau-Lifshitz-Bloch dynamics, we elucidate the underlying mechanism: transient ultrafast demagnetization followed by rapid remagnetization that enables a dipolar-driven collective rearrangement. Moreover, a tailored decreasing-fluence laser annealing protocol is shown to enhance ground-state ordering, consistently achieving over 92% ground-state vertex populations. This work opens the way to ultrafast and spatially selective control of magnetic states in artificial spin ice for spin-based computation and memory technologies, and highlights the critical interplay of thermal fluctuations, magnetostatic coupling, and transient magnetization dynamics. △ Less

Submitted 22 August, 2025; originally announced August 2025.

Magnetically Programmable Surface Acoustic Wave Filters: Device Concept and Predictive Modeling

Authors: Michael K. Steinbauer, Peter Flauger, Matthias Küß, Stephan Glamsch, Emeline D. S. Nysten, Matthias Weiß, Dieter Suess, Hubert J. Krenner, Manfred Albrecht, Claas Abert

Abstract: Filtering surface acoustic wave (SAW) signals of specified frequencies depending on the strength of an external magnetic field in a magnetostrictive material has garnered significant interest due to its potential scientific and industrial applications. Here, we propose a device that achieves selective SAW attenuation by instead programming its internal magnetic state. To this end, we perform micro… ▽ More Filtering surface acoustic wave (SAW) signals of specified frequencies depending on the strength of an external magnetic field in a magnetostrictive material has garnered significant interest due to its potential scientific and industrial applications. Here, we propose a device that achieves selective SAW attenuation by instead programming its internal magnetic state. To this end, we perform micromagnetic simulations for the magnetoelastic interaction of the Rayleigh SAW mode with spin waves (SWs) in exchange-decoupled Co/Ni islets on a piezoelectric LiTaO$_3$ substrate. Due to the islets exhibiting perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, the stray-field interaction between them leads to a shift in the SW dispersion depending on the magnetic alignment of neighboring islets. This significantly changes the efficiency of the magnetoelastic interaction at specified frequencies. We predict changes in SAW transmission of 28.9 dB/mm at 3.8 GHz depending on the state of the device. For the efficient simulation of the device, we extend a prior energy conservation argument based on analytical solutions of the SW to finite-difference numerical calculations, enabling the modeling of arbitrary magnetization patterns like the proposed islet-based design. △ Less

Submitted 31 July, 2025; originally announced July 2025.

SOT Enabled 3D Magnetic Field Sensor with Low Offset and High Sensitivity

Authors: Sebastian Zeilinger, Johannes Güttinger, Klemens Prügl, Michael Kirsch, Joshua M. Salazar-Mejía, Sabri Koraltan, Philip Heinrich, Sophie Zeilinger, Bernd Aichner, Florian Bruckner, Hubert Brückl, Armin Satz, Dieter Suess

Abstract: In this work we demonstrate a spin-orbit torque (SOT) magnetic field sensor, designed as a Ta/CoFeB/MgO structure, with high sensitivity and capable of active offset compensation in all three spatial directions. This is described and verified in both experiment and simulation. The measurements of magnetic fields showed an offset of 36, 50, and 37$\mathrm{μT}$ for x-, y-, and z-fields. Furthermore,… ▽ More In this work we demonstrate a spin-orbit torque (SOT) magnetic field sensor, designed as a Ta/CoFeB/MgO structure, with high sensitivity and capable of active offset compensation in all three spatial directions. This is described and verified in both experiment and simulation. The measurements of magnetic fields showed an offset of 36, 50, and 37$\mathrm{μT}$ for x-, y-, and z-fields. Furthermore, the sensitivities of these measurements had values of 590, 580, and 490$\mathrm{V\,A^{-1}\,T^{-1}}$ in the x-, y-, and z-direction. In addition, the robustness to bias fields is demonstrated via experiments and single spin simulations by applying bias fields in y-direction. Cross sensitivities were further analyzed via single spin simulations performing a parameter sweep of different bias fields in the y- and z-direction up to $\pm$1mT. Finally, the extraction of the SOT parameters $η_\mathrm{DL}$ and $η_\mathrm{FL}$ is shown via optimization of a single-spin curve to the experimental measurements. △ Less

Submitted 17 July, 2025; v1 submitted 18 June, 2025; originally announced June 2025.

Comments: 29 pages, 7 figures. To be submitted to Physical Review Applied. Corrected swapped values of SOT parameters. Updated explanation in Section VI "Behavior under bias fields." Added a new appendix section with an additional figure. Made minor edits throughout the manuscript

Reconfigurable three dimensional magnetic nanoarchitectures

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Fabrizio Porrati, Robert Kraft, Sven Barth, Markus Weigand, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess, Michael Huth, Sebastian Wintz

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) nanomagnetism is a rapidly developing field within magnetic materials research, where exploiting the third dimension unlocks opportunities for innovative applications in areas such as sensing, data storage, and neuromorphic computing. Among various fabrication techniques, focused electron beam-induced deposition (FEBID) offers high flexibility in creating complex 3D nanostru… ▽ More Three-dimensional (3D) nanomagnetism is a rapidly developing field within magnetic materials research, where exploiting the third dimension unlocks opportunities for innovative applications in areas such as sensing, data storage, and neuromorphic computing. Among various fabrication techniques, focused electron beam-induced deposition (FEBID) offers high flexibility in creating complex 3D nanostructures with sub-100 nm resolution. A key challenge in the development of 3D nanomagnets is the ability to locally control the magnetic configuration, which is essential to achieve desired functionalities. In this work, the magnetization reversal mechanism of a three-dimensional nanoarchitecture fabricated using focused electron beam-induced deposition is investigated by combining direct observation via scanning transmission X-ray microscopy with finite element micromagnetic simulations. In particular, our investigation shows that the magnetization of the components of a three-dimensional Co3 Fe tetrapod can be reversed individually and sequentially. Finally, it is demonstrated that complete control and reconfigurability of the system can be achieved by tuning the direction of the applied magnetic field. △ Less

Submitted 17 June, 2025; originally announced June 2025.

Comments: 10 pages, 6 figures

Pathways to Bubble and Skyrmion Lattice Formation in Fe/Gd Multilayers

Authors: Tim Titze, Sabri Koraltan, Mailin Matthies, Timo Schmidt, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht, Stefan Mathias, Daniel Steil

Abstract: The creation and control of magnetic spin textures is of great interest in fundamental research and future device-oriented applications. Fe/Gd multilayers host a rich variety of magnetic textures including topologically trivial bubbles and topologically protected skyrmions. Using time-resolved Kerr spectroscopy, we highlight how various control strategies, including temperature, out-of-plane magne… ▽ More The creation and control of magnetic spin textures is of great interest in fundamental research and future device-oriented applications. Fe/Gd multilayers host a rich variety of magnetic textures including topologically trivial bubbles and topologically protected skyrmions. Using time-resolved Kerr spectroscopy, we highlight how various control strategies, including temperature, out-of-plane magnetic fields and femtosecond light excitation, can be used to create such textures via different pathways. We find that varying the magnetic field for constant temperature leads to a different ($H, T$)-phase diagram of magnetic textures than moving along a temperature trajectory for constant magnetic field. Micromagnetic simulations corroborate this finding and allow to visualize the different paths taken. Furthermore, we show that the creation of bubbles and skyrmions in this material via impulsive light excitation is not solely governed by temperature-driven processes, since bubbles and skyrmions can be stabilized in parts of the ($H, T$)-phase diagram, where neither the constant temperature nor the constant magnetic field trajectory predict their existence. Using this phase diagram, we reason why bubble and skyrmion creation in this particular system is only possible from the stripe domain state. Our observations provide a versatile toolkit for tailoring the creation of magnetic spin textures in Fe/Gd multilayers. △ Less

Submitted 30 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Comments: 10 pages, 9 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 112, 064413 (2025)

Signatures of higher order skyrmionic textures revealed by magnetic force microscopy

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Joe Sunny, Tamer Karaman, Reshma Peremadathil-Pradeep, Emily Darwin, Felix Büttner, Dieter Suess, Hans Josef Hug, Manfred Albrecht

Abstract: Higher-order skyrmions and antiskyrmions are topologically protected spin textures with an integer topological charge other than $\pm 1$ and nucleate from topological point defects in regular Bloch walls, known as vertical Bloch lines. So far, they have only been observed using Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. In this work, we show that higher-order spin textures coexisting in Co/Ni multi… ▽ More Higher-order skyrmions and antiskyrmions are topologically protected spin textures with an integer topological charge other than $\pm 1$ and nucleate from topological point defects in regular Bloch walls, known as vertical Bloch lines. So far, they have only been observed using Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. In this work, we show that higher-order spin textures coexisting in Co/Ni multilayers at room temperature can be visualized by high-resolution magnetic force microscopy (MFM). The experimental results are supported by micromagnetic simulations confirming that different spin objects give rise to distinct MFM contrast in full agreement to our observations. △ Less

Submitted 8 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Comments: 7 pages, 5 figures

Damping Enhancement in YIG at Millikelvin Temperatures due to GGG Substrate

Authors: Rostyslav O. Serha, Andrey A. Voronov, David Schmoll, Rebecca Klingbeil, Sebastian Knauer, Sabri Koraltan, Ekaterina Pribytova, Morris Lindner, Timmy Reimann, Carsten Dubs, Claas Abert, Roman Verba, Michal Urbánek, Dieter Suess, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: Quantum magnonics aims to exploit the quantum mechanical properties of magnons for nanoscale quantum information technologies. Ferrimagnetic yttrium iron garnet (YIG), which offers the longest magnon lifetimes, is a key material typically grown on gadolinium gallium garnet (GGG) substrates for structural compatibility. However, the increased magnetic damping in YIG/GGG systems below 50$\,$K poses… ▽ More Quantum magnonics aims to exploit the quantum mechanical properties of magnons for nanoscale quantum information technologies. Ferrimagnetic yttrium iron garnet (YIG), which offers the longest magnon lifetimes, is a key material typically grown on gadolinium gallium garnet (GGG) substrates for structural compatibility. However, the increased magnetic damping in YIG/GGG systems below 50$\,$K poses a challenge for quantum applications. Here, we study the damping in a 97$\,$nm-thick YIG film on a 500$\,μ$m-thick GGG substrate at temperatures down to 30$\,$mK using ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectroscopy. We show that the dominant physical mechanism for the observed tenfold increase in FMR linewidth at millikelvin temperatures is the non-uniform bias magnetic field generated by the partially magnetized paramagnetic GGG substrate. Numerical simulations and analytical theory show that the GGG-driven linewidth enhancement can reach up to 6.7 times. In addition, at low temperatures and frequencies above 18$\,$GHz, the FMR linewidth deviates from the viscous Gilbert-damping model. These results allow the partial elimination of the damping mechanisms attributed to GGG, which is necessary for the advancement of solid-state quantum technologies. △ Less

Submitted 3 December, 2024; originally announced December 2024.

Journal ref: Materials Today Quantum 5, 100025 (2025)

Inverse-design topology optimization of magnonic devices using level-set method

Authors: Andrey A. Voronov, Marcos Cuervo Santos, Florian Bruckner, Dieter Suess, Andrii V. Chumak, Claas Abert

Abstract: The inverse design approach in magnonics exploits the wave nature of magnons and machine learning to develop logical devices with functionalities that exceed the capabilities of analytical methods. While promising for analog, Boolean, and neuromorphic computing, current implementations face memory limitations that hinder the design of complex systems. This study presents a level-set parameterizati… ▽ More The inverse design approach in magnonics exploits the wave nature of magnons and machine learning to develop logical devices with functionalities that exceed the capabilities of analytical methods. While promising for analog, Boolean, and neuromorphic computing, current implementations face memory limitations that hinder the design of complex systems. This study presents a level-set parameterization method for topology optimization, combined with an adjoint-state approach for memory-efficient simulation of magnetization dynamics. The framework is implemented in NeuralMag, a GPU-accelerated micromagnetic solver featuring a nodal finite-difference scheme and automatic differentiation tools. To validate the method, we optimized the shape of a magnetic nanoparticle by applying constraints to the objective function, and designed a 300-nm-wide yttrium iron garnet demultiplexer achieving frequency-selective spin-wave separation. These results highlight the algorithm's efficiency in exploring local minima across various initial configurations, establishing its utility as a versatile tool for the inverse design of magnonic logic devices. △ Less

Submitted 23 May, 2025; v1 submitted 28 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Realization of inverse-design magnonic logic gates

Authors: Noura Zenbaa, Fabian Majcen, Claas Abert, Florian Bruckner, Norbert J. Mauser, Thomas Schrefl, Qi Wang, Dieter Suess, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: Magnonic logic gates represent a crucial step toward realizing fully magnonic data processing systems without reliance on conventional electronic or photonic elements. Recently, a universal and reconfigurable inverse-design device has been developed, featuring a 7$\times$7 array of independent current loops that create local inhomogeneous magnetic fields to scatter spin waves in a Yttrium-Iron-Gar… ▽ More Magnonic logic gates represent a crucial step toward realizing fully magnonic data processing systems without reliance on conventional electronic or photonic elements. Recently, a universal and reconfigurable inverse-design device has been developed, featuring a 7$\times$7 array of independent current loops that create local inhomogeneous magnetic fields to scatter spin waves in a Yttrium-Iron-Garnet film. While initially used for linear RF components, we now demonstrate key non-linear logic gates, NOT, OR, NOR, AND, NAND, and a half-adder, sufficient for building a full processor. In this system, binary data ("0" and "1") are encoded in the spin-wave amplitude. The contrast ratio, representing the difference between logic states, achieved values of 34, 53.9, 11.8, 19.7, 17, and 9.8 dB for these gates, respectively. △ Less

Submitted 26 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Wavenumber-dependent magnetic losses in YIG-GGG heterostructures at millikelvin temperatures

Authors: David Schmoll, Andrey A. Voronov, Rostslav O. Serha, Denys Slobodianiuk, Khrystyna O. Levchenko, Claas Abert, Sebastian Knauer, Dieter Suess, Roman Verba, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: Magnons have inspired potential applications in modern quantum technologies and hybrid quantum systems due to their intrinsic nonlinearity, nanoscale scalability, and a unique set of experimentally accessible parameters for manipulating their dispersion. Such magnon-based quantum technologies demand long decoherence times, millikelvin temperatures, and minimal dissipation. Due to its low magnetic… ▽ More Magnons have inspired potential applications in modern quantum technologies and hybrid quantum systems due to their intrinsic nonlinearity, nanoscale scalability, and a unique set of experimentally accessible parameters for manipulating their dispersion. Such magnon-based quantum technologies demand long decoherence times, millikelvin temperatures, and minimal dissipation. Due to its low magnetic damping, the ferrimagnet yttrium iron garnet (YIG), grown on gadolinium gallium garnet (GGG), is the most promising material for this objective. To comprehend the magnetic losses of propagating magnons in such YIG-GGG heterostructures at cryogenic temperatures, we investigate magnon transport in a micrometer-thick YIG sample via propagating spin-wave spectroscopy (PSWS) measurements for temperatures between 4K to 26mK. We demonstrate an increase in the dissipation rate with wavenumber at cryogenic temperatures, caused by dipolar coupling to the partially magnetized GGG substrate. Additionally, we observe a temperature-dependent decrease in spin-wave transmission, attributed to rare earth ion relaxations. The critical role of the additional dissipation channels at cryogenic temperatures is underpinned by the comparison of the experimental results with theoretical calculations and micromagnetic simulations. Our findings strengthen the understanding of magnon losses at millikelvin temperatures, which is essential for the future detection of individual propagating magnons. △ Less

Submitted 20 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Comments: 9 pages, 4 figures

Approaching the Physical Limits of Specific Absorption Rate in Hyperthermia Applications

Authors: S. Scheibler, H. Wei, J. Ackers, S. Helbig, S. Koraltan, R. Peremadathil-Pradeep, M. Krupiński, M. Graeser, D. Suess, I. K. Herrmann, H. J. Hug

Abstract: Magnetic nanoparticle-based hyperthermia has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for treating malignant solid tumors that exhibit resistance to conventional cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation. Despite the clinical approval of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for the adjunct treatment of recurrent glioblastoma, their therapeutic potential is undercut… ▽ More Magnetic nanoparticle-based hyperthermia has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for treating malignant solid tumors that exhibit resistance to conventional cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation. Despite the clinical approval of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for the adjunct treatment of recurrent glioblastoma, their therapeutic potential is undercut by chemical synthesis-inherent limitations such as low saturation magnetization, superparamagnetic characteristics, and a wide nanoparticle size distribution. Here, we introduce an micromagnetic modelling-based SAF-MDP design with in-plane magnetization, optimized through specific uniaxial anisotropy adjustments to avert the spin-flop phenomenon and eliminate hysteresis-free hard-axis magnetization loops, paired with a mechanofluidic modeling approach to assess the alignment of the SAF-MDP to the applied alternating magnetic field (AMF). Magnetic Force Microscopy characterization provides unprecedented insights into the particle switching behaviour on a single particle scale. This comprehensive strategy spanning micromagnetics and advanced magnetic characterization enables the design of particles with heating efficiencies to approach the theoretical maximum, dictated by the saturation magnetization of the utilized materials and limited solely by the biologically acceptable frequencies and amplitudes of the oscillating magnetic field. Our work not only addresses the limitations encountered by previous methodologies but also sets the stage for the development of advanced SAF-MDP designs and alignment techniques. This opens a new avenue to hyperthermia-based cancer therapy, delineated only by the boundaries of physical laws and biological safety standards. △ Less

Submitted 19 August, 2024; originally announced August 2024.

Comments: 9 pages, 5 figures, 3 pages Methods

Thermal Stoner-Wohlfarth Model for Magnetodynamics of Single Domain Nanoparticles: Implementation and Validation

Authors: Deniz Mostarac, Andrey A. Kuznetsov, Santiago Helbig, Claas Abert, Pedro A. Sanchez, Dieter Suess, Sofia S. Kantorovich

Abstract: We present the thermal Stoner-Wohlfarth (tSW) model and apply it in the context of Molecular Dynamics simulations. The model is validated against an ensemble of immobilized, randomly oriented uniaxial particles (solid superparamagnet) and a classical dilute ferrofluid for different combinations of anisotropy strength and magnetic field/moment coupling, at a fixed temperature. We compare analytical… ▽ More We present the thermal Stoner-Wohlfarth (tSW) model and apply it in the context of Molecular Dynamics simulations. The model is validated against an ensemble of immobilized, randomly oriented uniaxial particles (solid superparamagnet) and a classical dilute ferrofluid for different combinations of anisotropy strength and magnetic field/moment coupling, at a fixed temperature. We compare analytical and simulation results to quantify the viability of the tSW model in reproducing the equilibrium (with and without dipole-dipole interactions) and dynamic (without dipole-dipole interactions) properties of magnetic soft matter systems. We show that if the anisotropy of a particle is more than five times higher than the thermal fluctuations, tSW is applicable and efficient. This approach allows one to consider the interplay between Néel and Brownian relaxation, often neglected in the fixed point-dipole representation-based magnetic soft matter theoretical investigations. △ Less

Submitted 9 January, 2025; v1 submitted 12 August, 2024; originally announced August 2024.

Transition from ferromagnetic to noncollinear to paramagnetic state with increasing Ru concentration in FeRu films

Authors: Juliana Lisik, Manuel Rojas, Spencer Myrtle, Dominic H. Ryan, René Hübner, Pavlo Omelchenko, Claas Abert, Amil Ducevic, Dieter Suess, Ivan Soldatov, Rudolf Schaefer, Johannes Seyd, Manfred Albrecht, Erol Girt

Abstract: The structural and magnetic properties of sputter-deposited Fe$_{100-x}$Ru$_x$ films were studied for $x \leq 50$. The crystal structure of Fe$_{100-x}$Ru$_x$ is shown to be predominantly body-centered cubic for $x<13$ and to undergo a gradual transition to hexagonal close-packed in the concentration range $13 \lesssim x \lesssim 20$. Magnetic measurements indicate that the addition of Ru induces… ▽ More The structural and magnetic properties of sputter-deposited Fe$_{100-x}$Ru$_x$ films were studied for $x \leq 50$. The crystal structure of Fe$_{100-x}$Ru$_x$ is shown to be predominantly body-centered cubic for $x<13$ and to undergo a gradual transition to hexagonal close-packed in the concentration range $13 \lesssim x \lesssim 20$. Magnetic measurements indicate that the addition of Ru induces a noncollinear magnetic order in the body-centered cubic FeRu alloys, while the hexagonal close-packed FeRu alloys exhibit paramagnetic behavior. Increasing the Ru concentration in body-centered cubic FeRu alloys decreases the size of magnetic domains, approaching the size of magnetic grains. A simple atomistic model was used to show that antiferromagnetic coupling of Fe atoms across Ru atoms can be responsible for inducing noncollinear order in the FeRu cubic structures. Magnetic multilayer structures used in thin-film magnetic devices make extensive use of both Fe and Ru layers. Our results reveal that the presence of even a small amount of Ru in Fe influences the magnetic order of Fe, which could impact the performance of these devices. △ Less

Submitted 24 July, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

Comments: 16 pages, 11 figures. Juliana Lisik and Manuel Rojas contributed equally. Corresponding author emails: jbesler@sfu.ca (Juliana Lisik), mrojas@sfu.ca (Manuel Rojas), dhryan@physics.mcgill.ca (Dominic H. Ryan), egirt@sfu.ca (Erol Girt)

Vortex motion in reconfigurable three-dimensional superconducting nanoarchitectures

Authors: Elina Zhakina, Luke Turnbull, Weijie Xu, Markus König, Paul Simon, Wilder Carrillo-Cabrera, Amalio Fernandez-Pacheco, Uri Vool, Dieter Suess, Claas Abert, Vladimir M. Fomin, Claire Donnelly

Abstract: When materials are patterned in three dimensions, there exist opportunities to tailor and create functionalities associated with an increase in complexity, the breaking of symmetries, and the introduction of curvature and non-trivial topologies. For superconducting nanostructures, the extension to the third dimension may trigger the emergence of new physical phenomena, as well as advances in techn… ▽ More When materials are patterned in three dimensions, there exist opportunities to tailor and create functionalities associated with an increase in complexity, the breaking of symmetries, and the introduction of curvature and non-trivial topologies. For superconducting nanostructures, the extension to the third dimension may trigger the emergence of new physical phenomena, as well as advances in technologies. Here, we harness three-dimensional (3D) nanopatterning to fabricate and control the emergent properties of a 3D superconducting nanostructure. Not only are we able to demonstrate the existence and motion of superconducting vortices in 3D but, with simulations, we show that the confinement leads to a well-defined bending of the vortices within the volume of the structure. Moreover, we experimentally observe a strong geometrical anisotropy of the critical field, through which we achieve the reconfigurable coexistence of superconducting and normal states in our 3D superconducting architecture, and the local definition of weak links. In this way, we uncover an intermediate regime of nanosuperconductivity, where the vortex state is truly three-dimensional and can be designed and manipulated by geometrical confinement. This insight into the influence of 3D geometries on superconducting properties offers a route to local reconfigurable control for future computing devices, sensors, and quantum technologies. △ Less

Submitted 18 April, 2024; originally announced April 2024.

Comments: 22 pages, 12 figures

Tailoring the energy landscape of a Bloch point singularity with curvature

Authors: Sandra Ruiz-Gomez, Claas Abert, Pamela Morales-Fernández, Claudia Fernandez-Gonzalez, Sabri Koraltan, Lukas Danesi, Dieter Suess, Michael Foerster, Miguel Ángel Nino, Anna Mandziak, Dorota Wilgocka-Ślęzak, Pawel Nita, Markus Koenig, Sebastian Seifert, Aurelio Hierro Rodríguez, Amalio Fernández-Pacheco, Claire Donnelly

Abstract: Topological defects, or singularities, play a key role in the statics and dynamics of complex systems. In magnetism, Bloch point singularities represent point defects that mediate the nucleation of textures such as skyrmions and hopfions. However, while the textures are typically stabilised in chiral magnets, the influence of chirality on the Bloch point singularities remains relatively unexplored… ▽ More Topological defects, or singularities, play a key role in the statics and dynamics of complex systems. In magnetism, Bloch point singularities represent point defects that mediate the nucleation of textures such as skyrmions and hopfions. However, while the textures are typically stabilised in chiral magnets, the influence of chirality on the Bloch point singularities remains relatively unexplored. Here we harness advanced three-dimensional nanofabrication to explore the influence of chirality on Bloch point singularities by introducing curvature-induced symmetry breaking in a ferromagnetic nanowire. Combining X-ray magnetic microscopy with the application of in situ magnetic fields, we demonstrate that Bloch point singularity-containing domain walls are stabilised in straight regions of the sample, and determine that curvature can be used to tune the energy landscape of the Bloch points. Not only are we able to pattern pinning points but, by controlling the gradient of curvature, we define asymmetric potential wells to realise a robust Bloch point shift-register with non-reciprocal behaviour. These insights into the influence of symmetry and chirality on singularities offers a route to the controlled nucleation and propagation of topological textures, providing opportunities for logic and computing devices. △ Less

Submitted 9 April, 2024; originally announced April 2024.

Field-free switching of perpendicular magnetic elements by using two orthogonal sub nanosecond spin orbit torque pulses

Authors: Dieter Suess, Claas Abert, Sebastian Zeilinger, Florian Bruckner, Sabri Koraltan

Abstract: We propose a field-free switching mechanism that utilizes two spatially orthogonal spin-orbit torque (SOT) currents. Initially applied simultaneously, one of the currents is subsequently switched off. The superposition of these two currents results in an in-plane magnetization, which is not orthogonal to the remaining SOT current after the second one is deactivated. This symmetry-breaking procedur… ▽ More We propose a field-free switching mechanism that utilizes two spatially orthogonal spin-orbit torque (SOT) currents. Initially applied simultaneously, one of the currents is subsequently switched off. The superposition of these two currents results in an in-plane magnetization, which is not orthogonal to the remaining SOT current after the second one is deactivated. This symmetry-breaking procedure leads to reproducible and rapid switching, with field pulse durations as short as 0.25 nanoseconds. △ Less

Submitted 29 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Experimental realisation of a universal inverse-design magnonic device

Authors: Noura Zenbaa, Claas Abert, Fabian Majcen, Michael Kerber, Rostyslav O. Serha, Sebastian Knauer, Qi Wang, Thomas Schrefl, Dieter Suess, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: In the field of magnonics, which uses magnons, the quanta of spin waves, for energy-efficient data processing, significant progress has been made leveraging the capabilities of the inverse design concept. This approach involves defining a desired functionality and employing a feedback-loop algorithm to optimise the device design. In this study, we present the first experimental demonstration of a… ▽ More In the field of magnonics, which uses magnons, the quanta of spin waves, for energy-efficient data processing, significant progress has been made leveraging the capabilities of the inverse design concept. This approach involves defining a desired functionality and employing a feedback-loop algorithm to optimise the device design. In this study, we present the first experimental demonstration of a reconfigurable, lithography-free, and simulation-free inverse-design device capable of implementing various RF components. The device features a square array of independent direct current loops that generate a complex reconfigurable magnetic medium atop a Yttrium-Iron-Garnet (YIG) rectangular film for data processing in the gigahertz range. Showcasing its versatility, the device addresses inverse problems using two algorithms to create RF notch filters and demultiplexers. Additionally, the device holds promise for binary, reservoir, and neuromorphic computing applications. △ Less

Submitted 3 July, 2024; v1 submitted 26 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Skyrmionic device for three dimensional magnetic field sensing enabled by spin-orbit torques

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Rahul Gupta, Reshma Peremadathil Pradeep, Fabian Kammerbauer, Iryna Kononenko, Klemens Prügl, Michael Kirsch, Bernd Aichner, Santiago Helbig, Florian Bruckner, Claas Abert, Andrada Oana Mandru, Armin Satz, Gerhard Jakob, Hans Josef Hug, Mathias Kläui, Dieter Suess

Abstract: Magnetic skyrmions are topologically protected local magnetic solitons that are promising for storage, logic or general computing applications. In this work, we demonstrate that we can use a skyrmion device based on [W/CoFeB/MgO] 1 0 multilayers for three-dimensional magnetic field sensing enabled by spin-orbit torques (SOT). We stabilize isolated chiral skyrmions and stripe domains in the multila… ▽ More Magnetic skyrmions are topologically protected local magnetic solitons that are promising for storage, logic or general computing applications. In this work, we demonstrate that we can use a skyrmion device based on [W/CoFeB/MgO] 1 0 multilayers for three-dimensional magnetic field sensing enabled by spin-orbit torques (SOT). We stabilize isolated chiral skyrmions and stripe domains in the multilayers, as shown by magnetic force microscopy images and micromagnetic simulations. We perform magnetic transport measurements to show that we can sense both in-plane and out-of-plane magnetic fields by means of a differential measurement scheme in which the symmetry of the SOT leads to cancelation of the DC offset. With the magnetic parameters obtained by vibrating sample magnetometry and ferromagnetic resonance measurements, we perform finite-temperature micromagnetic simulations, where we investigate the fundamental origin of the sensing signal. We identify the topological transformation between skyrmions, stripes and type-II bubbles that leads to a change in the resistance that is read-out by the anomalous Hall effect. Our study presents a novel application for skyrmions, where a differential measurement sensing concept is applied to quantify external magnetic fields paving the way towards more energy efficient applications in skyrmionics based spintronics. △ Less

Submitted 25 March, 2024; originally announced March 2024.

Comments: Main Text: 9 Pages, 6 Figures

Energy landscape of noncollinear exchange coupled magnetic multilayers

Authors: George Lertzman-Lepofsky, Afan Terko, Sabri Koraltan, Dieter Suess, Erol Girt, Claas Abert

Abstract: We conduct an exploration of the energy landscape of two coupled ferromagnetic layers with perpendicular-to-plane uniaxial anisotropy using finite-element micromagnetic simulations. These multilayers can be used to produce noncollinearity in spin-transfer torque magnetic random-access memory cells, which has been shown to increase the performance of this class of computer memory. We show that ther… ▽ More We conduct an exploration of the energy landscape of two coupled ferromagnetic layers with perpendicular-to-plane uniaxial anisotropy using finite-element micromagnetic simulations. These multilayers can be used to produce noncollinearity in spin-transfer torque magnetic random-access memory cells, which has been shown to increase the performance of this class of computer memory. We show that there exists a range of values of the interlayer exchange coupling constants for which the magnetic state of these multilayers can relax into two energy minima. The size of this region is determined by the difference in the magnitude of the layer anisotropies and is minimized when this difference is large. In this case, there is a wide range of experimentally achievable coupling constants that can produce desirable and stable noncollinear alignment. We investigate the energy barriers separating the local and global minima using string method simulations, showing that the stabilities of the minima increase with increasing difference in the anisotropy of the ferromagnetic layers. We provide an analytical solution to the location of the minima in the energy landscape of coupled macrospins, which has good agreement with our micromagnetic results for a case involving ferromagnetic layers with the same thickness and anisotropy, no demagnetization field, and large exchange stiffness. These results are important to understand how best to employ noncollinear coupling in the next generation of thin film magnetic devices. △ Less

Submitted 30 August, 2024; v1 submitted 24 February, 2024; originally announced February 2024.

Comments: 10 pages, 9 figures

Steerable current-driven emission of spin waves in magnetic vortex pairs

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Katrin Schultheiss, Florian Bruckner, Markus Weigand, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess, Sebastian Wintz

Abstract: The efficient excitation of spin waves is a key challenge in the realization of magnonic devices. We demonstrate the current-driven generation of spin waves in antiferromagnetically coupled magnetic vortices. We employ time-resolved scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (TR-STXM) to directly image the emission of spin waves upon the application of an alternating current flowing directly through t… ▽ More The efficient excitation of spin waves is a key challenge in the realization of magnonic devices. We demonstrate the current-driven generation of spin waves in antiferromagnetically coupled magnetic vortices. We employ time-resolved scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (TR-STXM) to directly image the emission of spin waves upon the application of an alternating current flowing directly through the magnetic stack. Micromagnetic simulations allow us to identify the origin of the excitation to be the current-driven Oersted field, which in the present system proves to be orders of magnitude more efficient than the commonly used excitation via stripline antennas. Our numerical studies also reveal that the spin-transfer torque can lead to the emission of spin waves as well, yet only at much higher current amplitudes. By using magnetostrictive materials, we futhermore demonstrate that the direction of the magnon propagation can be steered by increasing the excitation amplitude, which modifies the underlying magnetization profile through an additional anisotropy in the magnetic layers. The demonstrated methods allow for the efficient and tunable excitation of spin waves, marking a significant advance in the generation and control of spin waves in magnonic devices. △ Less

Submitted 24 February, 2024; originally announced February 2024.

Comments: 12 Pages, 7 Figures, SI: 8 Pages, 8 Figures

Magnetic anisotropy and GGG substrate stray field in YIG films down to millikelvin temperatures

Authors: Rostyslav O. Serha, Andrey A. Voronov, David Schmoll, Roman Verba, Khrystyna O. Levchenko, Sabri Koraltan, Kristýna Davídková, Barbora Budinska, Qi Wang, Oleksandr V. Dobrovolskiy, Michal Urbánek, Morris Lindner, Timmy Reimann, Carsten Dubs, Carlos Gonzalez-Ballestero, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess, Dmytro A. Bozhko, Sebastian Knauer, Andrii V. Chumak

Abstract: Quantum magnonics investigates the quantum-mechanical properties of magnons such as quantum coherence or entanglement for solid-state quantum information technologies at the nanoscale. The most promising material for quantum magnonics is the ferrimagnetic yttrium iron garnet (YIG), which hosts magnons with the longest lifetimes. YIG films of the highest quality are grown on a paramagnetic gadolini… ▽ More Quantum magnonics investigates the quantum-mechanical properties of magnons such as quantum coherence or entanglement for solid-state quantum information technologies at the nanoscale. The most promising material for quantum magnonics is the ferrimagnetic yttrium iron garnet (YIG), which hosts magnons with the longest lifetimes. YIG films of the highest quality are grown on a paramagnetic gadolinium gallium garnet (GGG) substrate. The literature has reported that ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) frequencies of YIG/GGG decrease at temperatures below 50 K despite the increase in YIG magnetization. We investigated a 97 nm-thick YIG film grown on 500 $\mathrmμ$m-thick GGG substrate through a series of experiments conducted at temperatures as low as 30 mK, and using both analytical and numerical methods. Our findings suggest that the primary factor contributing to the FMR frequency shift is the stray magnetic field created by the partially magnetized GGG substrate. This stray field is antiparallel to the applied external field and is highly inhomogeneous, reaching up to 40 mT in the center of the sample. At temperatures below 500 mK, the GGG field exhibits a saturation that cannot be described by the standard Brillouin function for a paramagnet. Including the calculated GGG field in the analysis of the FMR frequency versus temperature dependence allowed the determination of the cubic and uniaxial anisotropies. We find that the total anisotropy increases more than three times with the decrease in temperature down to 2 K. Our findings enable accurate predictions of the YIG/GGG magnetic systems behavior at low and ultra-low millikelvin temperatures, crucial for developing quantum magnonic devices. △ Less

Submitted 19 February, 2024; originally announced February 2024.

Journal ref: npj Spintronics 2, 29 (2024)

Nonreciprocal Spin Waves in Nanoscale Domain Walls Detected by Scanning X-ray Microscopy in Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropic Fe/Gd Multilayers

Authors: Ping Che, Axel Deenen, Andrea Mucchietto, Joachim Grafe, Michael Heigl, Korbinian Baumgaertl, Markus Weigand, Michael Bechtel, Sabri Koraltan, Gisela Schutz, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht, Dirk Grundler

Abstract: Spin wave nonreciprocity in domain walls (DWs) allows for unidirectional signal processing in reconfigurable magnonic circuits. Using scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM), we examined coherently-excited magnons propagating in Bloch-like DWs in amorphous Fe/Gd multilayers with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). Near 1 GHz we detected magnons with short wavelengths down to $λ= 281$ nm… ▽ More Spin wave nonreciprocity in domain walls (DWs) allows for unidirectional signal processing in reconfigurable magnonic circuits. Using scanning transmission x-ray microscopy (STXM), we examined coherently-excited magnons propagating in Bloch-like DWs in amorphous Fe/Gd multilayers with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). Near 1 GHz we detected magnons with short wavelengths down to $λ= 281$ nm in DWs whose minimum width amounted to $δ_{\rm DW} = 52$ nm. Consistent with micromagnetic simulations, the STXM data reveal their nonreciprocal magnon band structures. We identified Bloch points which disrupted the phase evolution of magnons and induced different $λ$ adjacent to the topological defects. Our observations provide direct evidence of nonreciprocal spin waves within Bloch-like DWs, serving as programmable waveguides in magnonic devices with directed information flow. △ Less

Submitted 10 November, 2023; originally announced November 2023.

Laser-induced real-space topology control of spin wave resonances

Authors: Tim Titze, Sabri Koraltan, Timo Schmidt, Marcel Möller, Florian Bruckner, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess, Claus Ropers, Daniel Steil, Manfred Albrecht, Stefan Mathias

Abstract: Femtosecond laser excitation of materials that exhibit magnetic spin textures promises advanced magnetic control via the generation of ultrafast and non-equilibrium spin dynamics. We explore such possibilities in ferrimagnetic [Fe(0.35 nm)/Gd(0.40 nm)]$_{160}$ multilayers, which host a rich diversity of magnetic textures from stripe domains at low magnetic fields, a dense bubble/skyrmion lattice a… ▽ More Femtosecond laser excitation of materials that exhibit magnetic spin textures promises advanced magnetic control via the generation of ultrafast and non-equilibrium spin dynamics. We explore such possibilities in ferrimagnetic [Fe(0.35 nm)/Gd(0.40 nm)]$_{160}$ multilayers, which host a rich diversity of magnetic textures from stripe domains at low magnetic fields, a dense bubble/skyrmion lattice at intermediate fields, and a single domain state for high magnetic fields. Using femtosecond magneto-optics, we observe distinct coherent spin wave dynamics in response to a weak laser excitation allowing us to unambiguously identify the different magnetic spin textures. Moreover, employing strong laser excitation we show that we achieve versatile control of the coherent spin dynamics via non-equilibrium and ultrafast transformation of magnetic spin textures by both creating and annihilating bubbles/skyrmions. We corroborate our findings by micromagnetic simulations and by Lorentz transmission electron microscopy before and after laser exposure. △ Less

Submitted 22 September, 2023; originally announced September 2023.

Comments: 19 article pages, 12 supplementary

Journal ref: Adv. Funct. Mater. 34, 2313619 (2024)

Single device offset-free magnetic field sensing principle with tunable sensitivity and linear range based on spin-orbit-torques

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Christin Schmitt, Florian Bruckner, Claas Abert, Klemens Prügl, Michael Kirsch, Rahul Gupta, Sebastian Zeilinger, Joshua M. Salazar-Mejía, Milan Agrawal, Johannes Güttinger, Armin Satz, Gerhard Jakob, Mathias Kläui, Dieter Suess

Abstract: We propose a novel device concept using spin-orbit-torques to realize a magnetic field sensor, where we eliminate the sensor offset using a differential measurement concept. We derive a simple analytical formulation for the sensor signal and demonstrate its validity with numerical investigations using macrospin simulations. The sensitivity and the measurable linear sensing range in the proposed co… ▽ More We propose a novel device concept using spin-orbit-torques to realize a magnetic field sensor, where we eliminate the sensor offset using a differential measurement concept. We derive a simple analytical formulation for the sensor signal and demonstrate its validity with numerical investigations using macrospin simulations. The sensitivity and the measurable linear sensing range in the proposed concept can be tuned by either varying the effective magnetic anisotropy or by varying the magnitude of the injected currents. We show that undesired perturbation fields normal to the sensitive direction preserve the zero-offset property and only slightly modulate the sensitivity of the proposed sensor. Higher-harmonics voltage analysis on a Hall cross experimentally confirms the linearity and tunability via current strength. Additionally, the sensor exhibits a non-vanishing offset in the experiment which we attribute to the anomalous Nernst effect. △ Less

Submitted 23 March, 2023; originally announced March 2023.

Comments: 12 Pages, 7 Figures

Generation and annihilation of skyrmions and antiskyrmions in magnetic heterostructures

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Claas Abert, Florian Bruckner, Michael Heigl, Manfred Albrecht, Dieter Suess

Abstract: We demonstrate the controlled generation and annihilation of (anti)skyrmions with tunable chirality in magnetic heterostructures by means of micromagnetic simulations. By making use of magnetic (anti)vortices in patterned ferromagnetic layer, we stabilize full lattices of (anti)skyrmions in an underlying skyrmionic thin film in a reproducible manner. The stability of the (anti)skyrmion depends on… ▽ More We demonstrate the controlled generation and annihilation of (anti)skyrmions with tunable chirality in magnetic heterostructures by means of micromagnetic simulations. By making use of magnetic (anti)vortices in patterned ferromagnetic layer, we stabilize full lattices of (anti)skyrmions in an underlying skyrmionic thin film in a reproducible manner. The stability of the (anti)skyrmion depends on the polarization of the (anti)vortex, whereas their chirality is given by those of the (anti)vortices. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the core coupling between the (anti)vortices and (anti)skyrmions allows to annihilate the spin-objects in a controlled fashion by applying short pulses of in-plane external magnetic fields, representing a new key paradigm in skyrmionic devices. △ Less

Submitted 25 July, 2022; originally announced July 2022.

Accurate finite-difference micromagnetics of magnets including RKKY interaction -- analytical solution and comparison to standard micromagnetic codes

Authors: Dieter Suess, Sabri Koraltan, Florian Slanovc, Florian Bruckner, Claas Abert

Abstract: Within this paper we show the importance of accurate implementations of the RKKY interactions for antiferromagnetically coupled ferromagnetic layers with thicknesses exceeding the exchange length. In order to evaluate the performance of different implementations of RKKY interaction, we develop a benchmark problem by deriving the analytical formula for the saturation field of two infinitely thick m… ▽ More Within this paper we show the importance of accurate implementations of the RKKY interactions for antiferromagnetically coupled ferromagnetic layers with thicknesses exceeding the exchange length. In order to evaluate the performance of different implementations of RKKY interaction, we develop a benchmark problem by deriving the analytical formula for the saturation field of two infinitely thick magnetic layers that are antiparallelly coupled. This benchmark problem shows that state-of-the-art implementations in commonly used finite-difference codes lead to errors of the saturation field that amount to more than 20% for mesh sizes of 2 nm which is well below the exchange length of the material. In order to improve the accuracy, we develop higher order cell based and nodal based finite-difference codes that significantly reduce the error compared to state-of-the-art implementations. For the second order cell based and first order nodal based finite element approach the error of the saturation field is reduced by about a factor of 10 (2% error) for the same mesh size of 2 nm. △ Less

Submitted 22 June, 2022; originally announced June 2022.

On the origin of noncollinear magnetization coupling across RuX layers

Authors: Claas Abert, Sabri Koraltan, Florian Bruckner, Florian Slanovc, Juliana Lisik, Pavlo Omelchenko, Erol Girt, Dieter Suess

Abstract: We present a simple atomistic model for the description of noncollinear coupling in magnetic multilayers with hybrid spacer layers made of Ru alloyed to ferromagnetic atoms such as Fe. In contrast to previous analytical and micromagnetic models that explain the noncollinear coupling by means of lateral fluctuations in the coupling constant, the presented model accounts for atom-atom coupling in al… ▽ More We present a simple atomistic model for the description of noncollinear coupling in magnetic multilayers with hybrid spacer layers made of Ru alloyed to ferromagnetic atoms such as Fe. In contrast to previous analytical and micromagnetic models that explain the noncollinear coupling by means of lateral fluctuations in the coupling constant, the presented model accounts for atom-atom coupling in all three spatial dimensions within the spacer layer. The new model is able to accurately predict the dependence of the macroscopic bilinear and biquadratic coupling constants on the spacer-layer composition and thickness, showing much better quantitative agreement than lateral-fluctuation models. Moreover, it predicts noncollinear coupling even for infinitely stiff ferromagnetic layers which goes beyond the predictions of previous models. △ Less

Submitted 21 January, 2022; originally announced January 2022.

In-situ alignment of anisotropic hard magnets of 3D printed magnets

Authors: Maximilian Suppan, Christian Huber, Klaus Mathauer, Claas Abert, Florian Brucker, Joamin Gonzalez-Gutierrez, Stephan Schuschnigg, Martin Groenefeld, Iulian Teliban, Spomenka Kobe, Boris Saje, Dieter Suess

Abstract: Within this work, we demonstrate in-situ easy-axis alignment of single-crystal magnetic particles inside a polymer matrix using fused filament fabrication. Two different magnetic materials are investigated: (i) Strontium hexaferrite inside a PA6 matrix, fill grade: 49 vol% and (ii) Samarium iron nitride inside a PA12 matrix, fill grade: 44 vol%. In the presence of the external alignment field, the… ▽ More Within this work, we demonstrate in-situ easy-axis alignment of single-crystal magnetic particles inside a polymer matrix using fused filament fabrication. Two different magnetic materials are investigated: (i) Strontium hexaferrite inside a PA6 matrix, fill grade: 49 vol% and (ii) Samarium iron nitride inside a PA12 matrix, fill grade: 44 vol%. In the presence of the external alignment field, the strontium hexaferrite particles inside the PA6 matrix can be well aligned with a ratio of remanent magnetization to saturation magnetization of 0.7. No significant alignment for samarium iron nitride could be achieved. The results show the feasibility to fabricate magnets with arbitrary and locally defined easy axis using fused filament fabrication since the permanent magnets used for the alignment (or alternatively an electromagnet) can be mounted on a rotatable platform. △ Less

Submitted 18 January, 2022; originally announced January 2022.

Roadmap on Spin-Wave Computing

Authors: A. V. Chumak, P. Kabos, M. Wu, C. Abert, C. Adelmann, A. Adeyeye, J. Åkerman, F. G. Aliev, A. Anane, A. Awad, C. H. Back, A. Barman, G. E. W. Bauer, M. Becherer, E. N. Beginin, V. A. S. V. Bittencourt, Y. M. Blanter, P. Bortolotti, I. Boventer, D. A. Bozhko, S. A. Bunyaev, J. J. Carmiggelt, R. R. Cheenikundil, F. Ciubotaru, S. Cotofana , et al. (91 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Magnonics is a field of science that addresses the physical properties of spin waves and utilizes them for data processing. Scalability down to atomic dimensions, operations in the GHz-to-THz frequency range, utilization of nonlinear and nonreciprocal phenomena, and compatibility with CMOS are just a few of many advantages offered by magnons. Although magnonics is still primarily positioned in the… ▽ More Magnonics is a field of science that addresses the physical properties of spin waves and utilizes them for data processing. Scalability down to atomic dimensions, operations in the GHz-to-THz frequency range, utilization of nonlinear and nonreciprocal phenomena, and compatibility with CMOS are just a few of many advantages offered by magnons. Although magnonics is still primarily positioned in the academic domain, the scientific and technological challenges of the field are being extensively investigated, and many proof-of-concept prototypes have already been realized in laboratories. This roadmap is a product of the collective work of many authors that covers versatile spin-wave computing approaches, conceptual building blocks, and underlying physical phenomena. In particular, the roadmap discusses the computation operations with Boolean digital data, unconventional approaches like neuromorphic computing, and the progress towards magnon-based quantum computing. The article is organized as a collection of sub-sections grouped into seven large thematic sections. Each sub-section is prepared by one or a group of authors and concludes with a brief description of the current challenges and the outlook of the further development of the research directions. △ Less

Submitted 30 October, 2021; originally announced November 2021.

Comments: 74 pages, 57 figures, 500 references

Journal ref: IEEE Transactions on Magnetics 58, 0800172 (2022)

Domain wall automotion in three-dimensional magnetic helical interconnectors

Authors: L. Skoric, C. Donnelly, A. Hierro-Rodriguez, S. Ruiz-Gómez, M. Foerster, M. A. Niño Orti, R. Belkhou, C. Abert, D. Suess, A. Fernández-Pacheco

Abstract: The fundamental limits currently faced by traditional computing devices necessitate the exploration of new ways to store, compute and transmit information. Here, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) magnetic interconnector that exploits geometry-driven automotion of domain walls (DWs), for the transfer of magnetic information between functional magnetic planes. By combining state-of-the-art 3D nano… ▽ More The fundamental limits currently faced by traditional computing devices necessitate the exploration of new ways to store, compute and transmit information. Here, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) magnetic interconnector that exploits geometry-driven automotion of domain walls (DWs), for the transfer of magnetic information between functional magnetic planes. By combining state-of-the-art 3D nanoprinting and standard physical vapor deposition, we prototype 3D helical DW conduits. We observe the automotion of DWs by imaging their magnetic state under different field sequences using X-ray microscopy, observing a robust unidirectional motion of DWs from the bottom to the top of the spirals. From experiments and micromagnetic simulations, we determine that the large thickness gradients present in the structure are the main mechanism for 3D DW automotion. We obtain direct evidence of how this tailorable magnetic energy gradient is imprinted in the devices, and how it competes with pinning effects due to local changes in the energy landscape. Our work also predicts how this effect could lead to high DW velocities, reaching the Walker limit during automotion. This work provides new possibilities for efficient transfer of magnetic information in three dimensions. △ Less

Submitted 9 October, 2021; originally announced October 2021.

Magnetostatics and micromagnetics with physics informed neural networks

Authors: Alexander Kovacs, Lukas Exl, Alexander Kornell, Johann Fischbacher, Markus Hovorka, Markus Gusenbauer, Leoni Breth, Harald Oezelt, Dirk Praetorius, Dieter Suess, Thomas Schrefl

Abstract: Partial differential equations and variational problems can be solved with physics informed neural networks (PINNs). The unknown field is approximated with neural networks. Minimizing the residuals of the static Maxwell equation at collocation points or the magnetostatic energy, the weights of the neural network are adjusted so that the neural network solution approximates the magnetic vector pote… ▽ More Partial differential equations and variational problems can be solved with physics informed neural networks (PINNs). The unknown field is approximated with neural networks. Minimizing the residuals of the static Maxwell equation at collocation points or the magnetostatic energy, the weights of the neural network are adjusted so that the neural network solution approximates the magnetic vector potential. This way, the magnetic flux density for a given magnetization distribution can be estimated. With the magnetization as an additional unknown, inverse magnetostatic problems can be solved. Augmenting the magnetostatic energy with additional energy terms, micromagnetic problems can be solved. We demonstrate the use of physics informed neural networks for solving magnetostatic problems, computing the magnetization for inverse problems, and calculating the demagnetization curves for two-dimensional geometries. △ Less

Submitted 7 June, 2021; originally announced June 2021.

Comments: 22 pages, 9 figures

MSC Class: I.6.3; I.6.5; I.2.6

Computational Micromagnetics based on Normal Modes: bridging the gap between macrospin and full spatial discretization

Authors: S. Perna, F. Bruckner, C. Serpico, D. Suess, M. d'Aquino

Abstract: The Landau-Lifshitz equation governing magnetization dynamics is written in terms of the amplitudes of normal modes associated with the micromagnetic system's appropriate ground state. This results in a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs), the right-hand side of which can be expressed as the sum of a linear term and nonlinear terms with increasing order of nonlinearity (quad… ▽ More The Landau-Lifshitz equation governing magnetization dynamics is written in terms of the amplitudes of normal modes associated with the micromagnetic system's appropriate ground state. This results in a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs), the right-hand side of which can be expressed as the sum of a linear term and nonlinear terms with increasing order of nonlinearity (quadratic, cubic, etc.). The application of the method to nanostructured magnetic systems demonstrates that the accurate description of magnetization dynamics requires a limited number of normal modes, which results in a considerable improvement in computational speed. The proposed method can be used to obtain a reduced-order dynamical description of magnetic nanostructures which allows to adjust the accuracy between low-dimensional models, such as macrospin, and micromagnetic models with full spatial discretization. This new paradigm for micromagnetic simulations is tested for three problems relevant to the areas of spintronics and magnonics: directional spin-wave coupling in magnonic waveguides, high power ferromagnetic resonance in a magnetic nanodot, and injection-locking in spin-torque nano-oscillators. The case studies considered demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach to systematically obtain an intermediate order dynamical model based on normal modes for the analysis of magnetic nanosystems. The time-consuming calculation of the normal modes has to be done only one time for the system. These modes can be used to optimize and predict the system response for all possible time-varying external excitations (magnetic fields, spin currents). This is of utmost importance for applications where fast and accurate system simulations are required, such as in electronic circuits including magnetic devices. △ Less

Submitted 7 October, 2021; v1 submitted 18 May, 2021; originally announced May 2021.

Micromagnetic modelling of magnetic domain walls in curved cylindrical nanotubes and nanowires

Authors: L. Skoric, C. Donnelly, C. Abert, A. Hierro-Rodriguez, D. Suess, A. Fernández-Pacheco

Abstract: We investigate the effect of curvature on the energy and stability of domain wall configurations in curved cylindrical nanotubes and nanowires. We use micromagnetic simulations to calculate the phase diagram for the transverse wall (TW) and vortex wall (VW) states in tubes, finding the ground state configuration and the metastability region where both types of walls can exist. The introduction of… ▽ More We investigate the effect of curvature on the energy and stability of domain wall configurations in curved cylindrical nanotubes and nanowires. We use micromagnetic simulations to calculate the phase diagram for the transverse wall (TW) and vortex wall (VW) states in tubes, finding the ground state configuration and the metastability region where both types of walls can exist. The introduction of curvature shifts the range for which the TW is the ground state domain wall to higher diameters, and increases the range of metastability. We interpret this behavior to be primarily due to the curvature-induced effective Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya term in the exchange energy. Furthermore, we demonstrate qualitatively the same behavior in solid cylindrical nanowires. Comparing both tubes and wires, we observe how while in tubes curvature tends to suppress the transformation from the TW to VW, in wires it promotes the transformation of the VW containing the Bloch point into the TW. These findings have important implications in the fundamental understanding of domain walls in 3D geometries, and the design of future domain wall devices. △ Less

Submitted 18 March, 2021; originally announced March 2021.

Tension-free Dirac strings and steered magnetic charges in 3D artificial spin ice

Authors: Sabri Koraltan, Florian Slanovc, Florian Bruckner, Cristiano Nisoli, Andrii V. Chumak, Oleksandr V. Dobrovolskiy, Claas Abert, Dieter Suess

Abstract: 3D nano-architectures present a new paradigm in modern condensed matter physics with numerous applications in photonics, biomedicine, and spintronics. They are promising for the realisation of 3D magnetic nano-networks for ultra-fast and low-energy data storage. Frustration in these systems can lead to magnetic charges or magnetic monopoles, which can function as mobile, binary information carrier… ▽ More 3D nano-architectures present a new paradigm in modern condensed matter physics with numerous applications in photonics, biomedicine, and spintronics. They are promising for the realisation of 3D magnetic nano-networks for ultra-fast and low-energy data storage. Frustration in these systems can lead to magnetic charges or magnetic monopoles, which can function as mobile, binary information carriers. However, Dirac strings in 2D artificial spin ices bind magnetic charges, while 3D dipolar counterparts require cryogenic temperatures for their stability. Here, we present a micromagnetic study of a highly-frustrated 3D artificial spin ice harboring tension-free Dirac strings with unbound magnetic charges at room temperature. We use micromagnetic simulations to demonstrate that the mobility threshold for magnetic charges is by $\SI{2}{eV}$ lower than their unbinding energy. By applying global magnetic fields, we steer magnetic charges in a given direction omitting unintended switchings. The introduced system paves a way towards 3D magnetic networks for data transport and storage △ Less

Submitted 18 February, 2021; originally announced February 2021.

Comments: 7 pages, 4 figures and 1 table

Non-planar geometrical effects on the magnetoelectrical signal in a three-dimensional nanomagnetic circuit

Authors: Fanfan Meng, Claire Donnelly, Claas Abert, Luka Skoric, Stuart Holmes, Zhuocong Xiao, Jung-Wei Liao, Peter J. Newton, Crispin H. W. Barnes, Dédalo Sanz-Hernández, Aurelio Hierro-Rodriguez, Dieter Suess, Russell P. Cowburn, Amalio Fernández-Pacheco

Abstract: Expanding nanomagnetism and spintronics into three dimensions (3D) offers great opportunities for both fundamental and technological studies. However, probing the influence of complex 3D geometries on magnetoelectrical phenomena poses important experimental and theoretical challenges. In this work, we investigate the magnetoelectrical signals of a ferromagnetic 3D nanodevice integrated into a micr… ▽ More Expanding nanomagnetism and spintronics into three dimensions (3D) offers great opportunities for both fundamental and technological studies. However, probing the influence of complex 3D geometries on magnetoelectrical phenomena poses important experimental and theoretical challenges. In this work, we investigate the magnetoelectrical signals of a ferromagnetic 3D nanodevice integrated into a microelectronic circuit using direct-write nanofabrication. Due to the 3D vectorial nature of both electrical current and magnetisation, a complex superposition of several magnetoelectrical effects takes place. By performing electrical measurements under the application of 3D magnetic fields, in combination with macrospin simulations and finite element modelling, we disentangle the superimposed effects, finding how a 3D geometry leads to unusual angular dependences of well-known magnetotransport effects such as the anomalous Hall effect. Crucially, our analysis also reveals a strong role of the noncollinear demagnetising fields intrinsic to 3D nanostructures, which results in an angular dependent magnon magnetoresistance contributing strongly to the total magnetoelectrical signal. These findings are key to the understanding of 3D spintronic systems and underpin further fundamental and device-based studies. △ Less

Submitted 18 November, 2020; originally announced November 2020.

Chiral switching and dynamic barrier reductions in artificial square ice

Authors: Naëmi Leo, Matteo Pancaldi, Sabri Koraltan, Pedro Villalba González, Claas Abert, Christoph Vogler, Florian Slanovc, Florian Bruckner, Paul Heistracher, Kevin Hofhuis, Matteo Menniti, Dieter Suess, Paolo Vavassori

Abstract: Collective dynamics in lithographically-defined artificial spin ices offer profound insights into emergent correlations and phase transitions of geometrically-frustrated Ising spin systems. Their temporal and spatial evolution are often simulated using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, which rely on the precise knowledge of the switching barriers to obtain predictive results in agreement with exper… ▽ More Collective dynamics in lithographically-defined artificial spin ices offer profound insights into emergent correlations and phase transitions of geometrically-frustrated Ising spin systems. Their temporal and spatial evolution are often simulated using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, which rely on the precise knowledge of the switching barriers to obtain predictive results in agreement with experimental observations. In many cases, however, the barriers are derived from simplified assumptions only, and do not take into account the full physical picture of nanomagnetic switching. Here we describe how the immediate magnetic environment of a nanomagnet reversing via quasi-coherent rotation can induce clockwise and counter-clockwise switching channels with different barrier energies. This barrier splitting for chiral reversal channels can be sizeable and, as string-method micromagnetic simulations show, is relevant for artificial spin ice systems made of both exchange -- as well as magnetostatically --dominated units. Due to the barrier splitting (and further reductions due to non-uniform reversal) transition rates can be exponentially enhanced by several orders of magnitude compared to mean-field predictions, especially in the limit of rare switching events where thermal excitation is less likely. This leads to significantly faster relaxation time scales and modified spatial correlations. Our findings are thus of integral importance to achieve realistic kinetic Monte Carlo simulations of emergent correlations in artificial spin systems, magnonic crystals, or the evolution of nanomagnetic logic circuits. △ Less

Submitted 21 October, 2020; originally announced October 2020.

Comments: 14 pages, 9 figures

Dipolar-stabilized first and second-order antiskyrmions in ferrimagnetic multilayers

Authors: Michael Heigl, Sabri Koraltan, Marek Vaňatka, Robert Kraft, Claas Abert, Christoph Vogler, Anna Semisalova, Ping Che, Aladin Ullrich, Timo Schmidt, Julian Hintermayr, Dirk Grundler, Michael Farle, Michal Urbánek, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht

Abstract: Skyrmions and antiskyrmions are topologically protected spin structures with opposite topological charge. Particularly in coexisting phases, these two types of magnetic quasi-particles may show fascinating physics and potential for spintronic devices. While skyrmions are observed in a wide range of materials, until now antiskyrmions were exclusive to materials with D2d symmetry. In this work, we s… ▽ More Skyrmions and antiskyrmions are topologically protected spin structures with opposite topological charge. Particularly in coexisting phases, these two types of magnetic quasi-particles may show fascinating physics and potential for spintronic devices. While skyrmions are observed in a wide range of materials, until now antiskyrmions were exclusive to materials with D2d symmetry. In this work, we show first and second-order antiskyrmions stabilized by magnetic dipole-dipole interaction in Fe/Gd-based multilayers. We modify the magnetic properties of the multilayers by Ir insertion layers. Using Lorentz transmission electron microscopy imaging, we observe coexisting antiskyrmions, Bloch skyrmions, and type-2 bubbles and determine the range of material properties and magnetic fields where the different spin objects form and dissipate. We perform micromagnetic simulations to obtain more insight into the studied system and conclude that the reduction of saturation magnetization and uniaxial anisotropy leads to the existence of this zoo of different spin objects and that they are primarily stabilized by dipolar interaction. △ Less

Submitted 18 February, 2021; v1 submitted 13 October, 2020; originally announced October 2020.

Prediction of magnetization dynamics in a reduced dimensional feature space setting utilizing a low-rank kernel method

Authors: Lukas Exl, Norbert J. Mauser, Sebastian Schaffer, Thomas Schrefl, Dieter Suess

Abstract: We establish a machine learning model for the prediction of the magnetization dynamics as function of the external field described by the Landau-Lifschitz-Gilbert equation, the partial differential equation of motion in micromagnetism. The model allows for fast and accurate determination of the response to an external field which is illustrated by a thin-film standard problem. The data-driven meth… ▽ More We establish a machine learning model for the prediction of the magnetization dynamics as function of the external field described by the Landau-Lifschitz-Gilbert equation, the partial differential equation of motion in micromagnetism. The model allows for fast and accurate determination of the response to an external field which is illustrated by a thin-film standard problem. The data-driven method internally reduces the dimensionality of the problem by means of nonlinear model reduction for unsupervised learning. This not only makes accurate prediction of the time steps possible, but also decisively reduces complexity in the learning process where magnetization states from simulated micromagnetic dynamics associated with different external fields are used as input data. We use a truncated representation of kernel principal components to describe the states between time predictions. The method is capable of handling large training sample sets owing to a low-rank approximation of the kernel matrix and an associated low-rank extension of kernel principal component analysis and kernel ridge regression. The approach entirely shifts computations into a reduced dimensional setting breaking down the problem dimension from the thousands to the tens. △ Less

Submitted 19 July, 2021; v1 submitted 13 August, 2020; originally announced August 2020.

MSC Class: 62P35; 68T05; 65Z05

Coexistence of distinct skyrmion phases observed in hybrid ferromagnetic/ferrimagnetic multilayers

Authors: Andrada-Oana Mandru, Oğuz Yıldırım, Riccardo Tomasello, Paul Heistracher, Marcos Penedo, Anna Giordano, Dieter Suess, Giovanni Finocchio, Hans Josef Hug

Abstract: Materials hosting magnetic skyrmions at room temperature could enable new computing architectures as well as compact and energetically efficient magnetic storage such as racetrack memories. In a racetrack device, information is coded by the presence/absence of magnetic skyrmions forming a chain that is moved through the device. The skyrmion Hall effect that would eventually lead to an annihilation… ▽ More Materials hosting magnetic skyrmions at room temperature could enable new computing architectures as well as compact and energetically efficient magnetic storage such as racetrack memories. In a racetrack device, information is coded by the presence/absence of magnetic skyrmions forming a chain that is moved through the device. The skyrmion Hall effect that would eventually lead to an annihilation of the skyrmions at the edges of the racetrack can be suppressed for example by anti-ferromagnetically-coupled skyrmions. However, avoiding modifications of the inter-skyrmion distances in the racetrack remains challenging. As a solution to this issue, a chain of bits could also be encoded by two different solitons such as a skyrmion and a chiral bobber. The major limitation of this approach is that it has solely been realized in B20-type single crystalline material systems that support skyrmions only at low temperatures, thus hindering the efficacy for future applications. Here we demonstrate that a hybrid ferro/ferri/ferromagnetic multilayer system can host two distinct skyrmion phases at room temperature. By matching quantitative magnetic force microscopy data with micromagnetic simulations, we reveal that the two phases represent tubular skyrmions and partial skyrmions (similar to skyrmion bobbers). Furthermore, the tubular skyrmion can be converted into a partial skyrmion. Such multilayer systems may thus serve as a platform for designing skyrmion memory applications using distinct types of skyrmions and potentially for storing information using the vertical dimension in a thin film device. △ Less

Submitted 30 July, 2020; originally announced July 2020.

Spin-canting effects in GMR sensors with wide dynamic field range

Authors: Clemens Muehlenhoff, Christoph Vogler, Wolfgang Raberg, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht

Abstract: Magnetoresistive (xMR) sensors find extensive application in science and industry, replacing Hall sensors in various low field environments. While there have been some efforts in increasing the dynamic field range of xMR sensors, Hall sensors remain to dominate high field applications due to their wide linear range. Using a perpendicular magnetized reference system and an in-plane free layer allow… ▽ More Magnetoresistive (xMR) sensors find extensive application in science and industry, replacing Hall sensors in various low field environments. While there have been some efforts in increasing the dynamic field range of xMR sensors, Hall sensors remain to dominate high field applications due to their wide linear range. Using a perpendicular magnetized reference system and an in-plane free layer allows us to overcome this disadvantage of xMR sensors, and, furthermore, investigate spin-canting effects in interlayer exchange coupled perpendicular synthetic antiferromagnets (p-SAF). We created p-SAFs with exchange coupling fields of up to 10 kOe, based on magnetic Co/Pt multilayer systems. The p-SAFs are either designed as "single" p-SAFs, where two Co/Pt multilayers are interlayer exchange coupled via a 4 Å thick Ru spacer, or as "double" p-SAFs, where an additional Co layer is interlayer exchange coupled to the top multilayer. These p-SAFs are used for giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors with wide dynamic field range. By using a p-SAF as the reference system and employing an in-plane magnetic layer as the GMR's free layer, the linear range can be effectively increased limited only by the p-SAF's switching fields. Additionally, the magnetic anisotropy of the in-plane free layer is fully controlled, which allows saturation fields by design. Different configurations were investigated, ranging from free layer magnetic saturation at lower to far higher fields than the p-SAF's switching fields. We can show through micromagnetic simulations that certain GMR transfer curves are dominated by spin-canting effects in the interlayer exchange coupled reference system. Finally, our simulation results lay out the correlation of the p-SAF's design parameters and its magnetization reversal behavior. △ Less

Submitted 6 July, 2020; originally announced July 2020.

Comments: 9 pages, 10 figures, 1 table

Microscopic origin of magnetization reversal in exchange-coupled ferro-/ferrimagnetic bilayers

Authors: Michael Heigl, Christoph Vogler, Andrada-Oana Mandru, Xue Zhao, Hans Josef Hug, Dieter Suess, Manfred Albrecht

Abstract: In this study, the magnetic reversal process of exchange-coupled bilayer systems, consisting of a ferrimagnetic TbFeCo alloy layer and a ferromagnetic [Co/Ni/Pt]N multilayer, was investigated. In particular, minor loop studies, probing solely the reversal characteristics of the softer ferromagnetic layer, reveal two distinct reversal mechanisms, which depend strongly on the thickness of the ferrom… ▽ More In this study, the magnetic reversal process of exchange-coupled bilayer systems, consisting of a ferrimagnetic TbFeCo alloy layer and a ferromagnetic [Co/Ni/Pt]N multilayer, was investigated. In particular, minor loop studies, probing solely the reversal characteristics of the softer ferromagnetic layer, reveal two distinct reversal mechanisms, which depend strongly on the thickness of the ferromagnetic layer. For thick layers, irreversible switching of the macroscopic minor loop is observed. The underlying microscopic origin of this reversal process was studied in detail by high-resolution magnetic force microscopy, showing that the reversal is triggered by in-plane domain walls propagating through the ferromagnetic layer. In contrast, thin ferromagnetic layers show a hysteresis-free reversal, which is nucleation-dominated due to grain-to-grain variations in magnetic anisotropy of the Co/Ni/Pt multilayer and an inhomogeneous exchange coupling with the magnetically hard TbFeCo layer, as confirmed by micromagnetic simulations. △ Less

Submitted 1 July, 2020; originally announced July 2020.

Comments: 8 pages, 7 figures

Hysteresis-free magnetization reversal of exchange-coupled bilayers with finite magnetic anisotropy

Authors: Christoph Vogler, Michael Heigl, Andrada-Oana Mandru, Birgit Hebler, Miguel Marioni, Hans Josef Hug, Manfred Albrecht, Dieter Suess

Abstract: Exchange-coupled structures consisting of ferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic layers become technologically more and more important. We show experimentally the occurrence of completely reversible, hysteresis-free minor loops of [Co(0.2 nm)/Ni(0.4 nm)/Pt(0.6 nm)]$_N$ multilayers exchange-coupled to a 20 nm thick ferrimagnetic Tb$_{28}$Co$_{14}$Fe$_{58}$ layer, acting as hard magnetic pinning layer. Fur… ▽ More Exchange-coupled structures consisting of ferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic layers become technologically more and more important. We show experimentally the occurrence of completely reversible, hysteresis-free minor loops of [Co(0.2 nm)/Ni(0.4 nm)/Pt(0.6 nm)]$_N$ multilayers exchange-coupled to a 20 nm thick ferrimagnetic Tb$_{28}$Co$_{14}$Fe$_{58}$ layer, acting as hard magnetic pinning layer. Furthermore, we present detailed theoretical investigations by means of micromagnetic simulations and most important a purely analytical derivation for the condition of the occurrence of full reversibility in magnetization reversal. Hysteresis-free loops always occur if a domain wall is formed during the reversal of the ferromagnetic layer and generates an intrinsic hard-axis bias field that overcomes the magnetic anisotropy field of the ferromagnetic layer. The derived condition further reveals that the magnetic anisotropy and the bulk exchange of both layers, as well as the exchange coupling strength and the thickness of the ferromagnetic layer play an important role for its reversibility. △ Less

Submitted 9 April, 2020; originally announced April 2020.

Comments: 9 pages, 7 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 102, 014429 (2020)

3D printing of polymer-bonded anisotropic magnets in an external magnetic field and by a modified production process

Authors: Klaus Sonnleitner, Christian Huber, Iulian Teliban, Spomenka Kobe, Boris Saje, Daniel Kagerbauer, Michael Reissner, Christian Lengauer, Martin Groenefeld, Dieter Suess

Abstract: The possibility of producing polymer-bonded magnets with the aid of additive processes, such as 3D printing, opens up a multitude of new areas of application. Almost any structures and prototypes can be produced cost-effectively in small quantities. Extending the 3D printing process allows the manufacturing of anisotropic magnetic structures by aligning the magnetic easy axis of ferromagnetic part… ▽ More The possibility of producing polymer-bonded magnets with the aid of additive processes, such as 3D printing, opens up a multitude of new areas of application. Almost any structures and prototypes can be produced cost-effectively in small quantities. Extending the 3D printing process allows the manufacturing of anisotropic magnetic structures by aligning the magnetic easy axis of ferromagnetic particles inside a paste-like compound material along an external magnetic field. This is achieved by two different approaches: First, the magnetic field for aligning the particles is provided by a permanent magnet. Secondly, the 3D printing process itselfs generates an anisotropic behavior of the structures. An inexpensive and customizable end-user fused filament fabrication 3D printer is used to print the magnetic samples. The magnetical properties of different magnetic anisotropic Sr ferrite and SmFeN materials are investigated and discussed. △ Less

Submitted 16 December, 2019; originally announced December 2019.

Polymer-bonded anisotropic SrFe$_\text{12}$O$_\text{19}$ filaments for fused filament fabrication

Authors: Christian Huber, Santiago Cano, Iulian Teliban, Stephan Schuschnigg, Martin Groenefeld, Dieter Suess

Abstract: In this publication we describe the extrusion process and the properties of polymer-bonded anisotropic SrFe$_\text{12}$O$_\text{19}$ filaments for fused filament fabrication (FFF). Highly filled polyamide 12 filaments with a filling fraction from 40 vol.% to 55 vol.% are mixed and extruded into filaments with a diameter of 1.75 mm. Such filaments are processable with a conventional FFF 3D printer.… ▽ More In this publication we describe the extrusion process and the properties of polymer-bonded anisotropic SrFe$_\text{12}$O$_\text{19}$ filaments for fused filament fabrication (FFF). Highly filled polyamide 12 filaments with a filling fraction from 40 vol.% to 55 vol.% are mixed and extruded into filaments with a diameter of 1.75 mm. Such filaments are processable with a conventional FFF 3D printer. No modifications of the 3D printer are necessary. Detailed mechanical and magnetic investigations of printed samples are performed and discussed. In the presence of an external alignment field, the Sr ferrite particles inside the PA12 matrix can be aligned along an external magnetic field. The remanence can be increased by 40 % by printing anisotropic structures. For the 55 vol.% filled filament, a remanence of 212.8 mT and a coercivity of 307.4 mT are measured. The capabilities of printing magnetic anisotropic structures in a complex external field are presented with a Halbach-array arrangement. By the aim of an inverse field model, based on a finite element method, the orientation of the particles and the quality of the print can be estimated by a nondestructive method. △ Less

Submitted 20 November, 2019; originally announced November 2019.

Additive manufactured isotropic NdFeB magnets by stereolithography, fused filament fabrication, and selective laser sintering

Authors: Christian Huber, Gerald Mitteramskogler, Michael Goertler, Iulian Teliban, Martin Groenefeld, Dieter Suess

Abstract: Magnetic isotropic NdFeB powder is processed by the following additive manufacturing methods: (i) stereolithography (SLA), (ii) fused filament fabrication (FFF), and (iii) selective laser sintering (SLS). For the first time, a stereolithography based method is used to 3D print hard magnetic materials. FFF and SLA use a polymer matrix material as binder, SLS sinters the powder directly. All methods… ▽ More Magnetic isotropic NdFeB powder is processed by the following additive manufacturing methods: (i) stereolithography (SLA), (ii) fused filament fabrication (FFF), and (iii) selective laser sintering (SLS). For the first time, a stereolithography based method is used to 3D print hard magnetic materials. FFF and SLA use a polymer matrix material as binder, SLS sinters the powder directly. All methods use the same hard magnetic NdFeB powder material. Complex magnets with small feature sizes in a superior surface quality can be printed with SLA. The magnetic properties for the processed samples are investigated and compared. SLA can print magnets with a remanence of 388 mT and a coercivity of 0.923 T. A complex magnetic design for speed wheel sensing applications is presented and printed with all methods. △ Less

Submitted 7 November, 2019; originally announced November 2019.

Improving the Signal-to-noise Ratio for Heat-Assisted Magnetic Recording by Optimizing a High/Low Tc bilayer structure

Authors: Olivia Muthsam, Florian Slanovc, Christoph Vogler, Dieter Suess

Abstract: We optimize the recording medium for heat-assisted magnetic recording by using a high/low $T_{\mathrm{c}}$ bilayer structure to reduce AC and DC noise. Compared to a former work, small Gilbert damping $α=0.02$ is considered for the FePt like hard magnetic material. Atomistic simulations are performed for a cylindrical recording grain with diameter $d=5\,$nm and height $h=8\,$nm. Different soft mag… ▽ More We optimize the recording medium for heat-assisted magnetic recording by using a high/low $T_{\mathrm{c}}$ bilayer structure to reduce AC and DC noise. Compared to a former work, small Gilbert damping $α=0.02$ is considered for the FePt like hard magnetic material. Atomistic simulations are performed for a cylindrical recording grain with diameter $d=5\,$nm and height $h=8\,$nm. Different soft magnetic material compositions are tested and the amount of hard and soft magnetic material is optimized. The results show that for a soft magnetic material with $α_{\mathrm{SM}}=0.1$ and $J_{ij,\mathrm{SM}}=7.72\times 10^{-21}\,$J/link a composition with $50\%$ hard and $50\%$ soft magnetic material leads to the best results. Additionally, we analyse how much the areal density can be improved by using the optimized bilayer structure compared to the pure hard magnetic recording material. It turns out that the optimized bilayer design allows an areal density that is $1\,$Tb/in$^2$ higher than that of the pure hard magnetic material while obtaining the same SNR. △ Less

Submitted 11 July, 2019; originally announced July 2019.

Comments: 7 pages, 7 figures