Magnetization reversal of periodic arrays of magnetic elements

摘要

Laterally structured magnetic films are important components of future magnetic storage elements. From the aspect of application, re-magnetization within a one domain state is preferred. However, in order to minimize stray field energies, lateral structures often form domains. Therefore, the study of the re-magnetization process is of particular interest. Polarized neutron reflectivity is a technique ideally suited for characterizing the magnetization reversal of periodically patterned structures. It can distinguish between magnetization reversal via coherent rotation or domain nucleation and wall movement. Re-magnetization measurements can be performed at the specular reflection as well as at Bragg reflections from the artificial periodicity. Whereas at the specular reflection an averaged signal over the complete sample is measured, the Bragg peaks filter out correlation effects between individual magnetic units. In this contribution polarized neutron reflectivity data from different periodic lateral structures are presented and discussed. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. [References: 28]