Helicity-dependent all-optical domain wall motion in ferromagnetic thin films

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates helicity-dependent all-optical domain wall motion in ferromagnetic Co/Pt thin films induced by femtosecond and picosecond laser pulses, revealing complex interactions influencing magnetic switching.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the microscopic mechanisms of helicity-dependent domain wall motion in ferromagnetic thin films using time-resolved imaging.

Findings

Achieved about 2 nm domain wall displacement per 2 ps pulse.

Identified the interplay of pinning, temperature gradient, and helicity effects.

Demonstrated multi-pulse helicity-dependent domain wall motion below switching threshold.

Abstract

Domain wall displacement in Co/Pt thin films induced by not only fs- but also ps-laser pulses is demonstrated using time-resolved magneto-optical Faraday imaging. We evidence multi-pulse helicity-dependent laser-induced domain wall motion in all-optical switchable Co/Pt multilayers with a laser energy below the switching threshold. Domain wall displacement of about 2 nm per 2- ps pulse is achieved. By investigating separately the effect of linear and circular polarization, we reveal that laser-induced domain wall motion results from a complex interplay between pinning, temperature gradient and helicity effect. Then, we explore the microscopic origin of the helicity effect acting on the domain wall. These experimental results enhance the understanding of the mechanism of all-optical switching in ultra-thin ferromagnetic films.