Rectangular Shaped Domain Structures and Magnetization Reversal Processes in FePt L1_0 Ordered Alloy Thin Films

摘要

The thickness dependent magnetic domain structures in FePt/MgO(100) L1_0 ordered alloy thin films are investigated by Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) for as-deposited and AC-demagnetized states Truncated stripe domains and bubbles are observed for as deposited states. However, very regular maze patterns, with a tendency of aligning along the (110) direction for thickness greater than 1000 A are observed for AC-demagnetized states. Unreversed domains with edges parallel to the (110) direction appeared in the remanent states for thickness greater than 1000 A. The preferential alignment of the domains along the (110) direction are attributed to the groove-like surface morphology running along the (110) direction as revealed by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).