# Resonant magneto-acoustic switching: influence of Rayleigh wave frequency and wavevector

## TL;DR

This paper demonstrates efficient 180-degree magnetization switching in thin films using large amplitude Rayleigh waves, revealing a resonant precessional mechanism and potential for precise, large-area magnetic control via surface acoustic waves.

## Contribution

It introduces a novel method of magnetization switching using Rayleigh waves, highlighting the role of resonance and wave interference for precise magnetic domain control.

## Key findings

- Magnetization can be switched by 180 degrees using Rayleigh waves.
- Large characteristic domains form during switching.
- Surface acoustic waves can travel at least 1mm and create interference patterns.

## Abstract

We show on in-plane magnetized thin films that magnetization can be switched efficiently by 180 degrees using large amplitude Rayleigh waves travelling along the hard or easy magnetic axis. Large characteristic filament-like domains are formed in the latter case. Micromagnetic simulations clearly confirm that this multi-domain configuration is compatible with a resonant precessional mechanism. The reversed domains are in both geometries several hundreds of \mu m^2, much larger than has been shown using spin transfer torque- or field-driven precessional switching. We show that surface acoustic waves can travel at least 1mm before addressing a given area, and can interfere to create magnetic stripes that can be positionned with a sub-micronic precision.