# Assessing interface coupling in exchange-biased systems via in-field interaction plots

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a generalized in-field interaction plot, delta-M_R, for analyzing exchange-biased systems, providing insights into reversal mechanisms and interface interactions, with a versatile method applicable across hysteresis-related fields.

## Contribution

The paper proposes a new general delta-M_R plot that can assess interactions in systems with shifted and asymmetric loops, enhancing analysis of exchange-biased systems.

## Key findings

- Delta-M_R distinguishes between magnetic coupling and interface effects.
- The method reveals reversal asymmetry in exchange-biased bilayers.
- Software is provided for generating delta-M_R plots.

## Abstract

An in-field interaction plot, delta-M_R, has been recently introduced, presenting important advantages over the classical remanence plots. Here a general delta-M_R is proposed, allowing to assess interactions even in systems with shifted and asymmetric major loops. To construct such a plot, a recoil loop and the position of the center of the major loop are only needed. Applying the method on exchange-biased Co/IrMn bilayer gives two types of delta-M_R obtained for measuring field either parallel or antiparallel to the exchange-bias direction. This provides valuable information on the reversal mechanism and allows distinguishing between effects coming from magnetic coupling into the ferromagnet (Co) and those stemming from interactions in its interface with the antiferromagnet (IrMn). The essentially nonzero general delta-M_R plot obtained from the major loop revealed to be a precise measure of the reversal asymmetry. The technique can readily be adjusted for use in other scientific fields where hysteresis is observed. We provide free software which generates such delta-M_R plot(s).