Spin-orbit field switching of magnetization in ferromagnetic films with perpendicular anisotropy

TL;DR

This paper proposes using the effective spin-orbit field generated by current pulses to achieve ultrafast magnetization switching in ferromagnetic films with perpendicular anisotropy, offering a rapid and efficient alternative to magnetic field control.

Contribution

It introduces a method for magnetization switching via spin-orbit fields induced by current pulses, demonstrating ultrafast switching in ferromagnetic films with perpendicular anisotropy.

Findings

Spin-orbit field can switch magnetization with small in-plane magnetic field.

Ultrafast switching achieved with 10 ps current pulses.

Complete switching occurs within approximately 100 ps.

Abstract

As an alternative to conventional magnetic field, the effective spin-orbit field in transition metals, derived from the Rashba field experienced by itinerant electrons confined in a spatial inversion asymmetric plane through the s-d exchange interaction, is proposed for the manipulation of magnetization. Magnetization switching in ferromagnetic thin films with perpendicular magnetocrystalline anisotropy can be achieved by current induced spin-orbit field, with small in-plane applied magnetic field. Spin-orbit field induced by current pulses as short as 10 ps can initiate ultrafast magnetization switching effectively, with experimentally achievable current densities. The whole switching process completes in about 100 ps.