Hyper-domains in exchange bias micro-stripe pattern

TL;DR

This study investigates the evolution of magnetization in exchange bias micro-stripe patterns using advanced experimental techniques, revealing complex re-magnetization stages and hyper-domain formation influenced by engineered interfacial exchange bias fields.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive experimental analysis of magnetization dynamics in patterned exchange bias systems and proposes a phenomenological model for controlling magnetic states.

Findings

Identification of multiple re-magnetization stages

Observation of hyper-domain formation in patterned structures

Quantitative characterization using polarized neutron reflectometry

Abstract

A combination of experimental techniques, e.g. vector-MOKE magnetometry, Kerr microscopy and polarized neutron reflectometry, was applied to study the field induced evolution of the magnetization distribution over a periodic pattern of alternating exchange bias stripes. The lateral structure is imprinted into a continuous ferromagnetic/antiferromagnetic exchange-bias bi-layer via laterally selective exposure to He-ion irradiation in an applied field. This creates an alternating frozen-in interfacial exchange bias field competing with the external field in the course of the re-magnetization. It was found that in a magnetic field applied at an angle with respect to the exchange bias axis parallel to the stripes the re-magnetization process proceeds via a variety of different stages. They include coherent rotation of magnetization towards the exchange bias axis, precipitation of small random (ripple) domains, formation of a stripe-like alternation of the magnetization, and development of a state in which the magnetization forms large hyper-domains comprising a number of stripes. Each of those magnetic states is quantitatively characterized via the comprehensive analysis of data on specular and off-specular polarized neutron reflectivity. The results are discussed within a phenomenological model containing a few parameters which can readily be controlled by designing systems with a desired configuration of magnetic moments of micro- and nano-elements.