Topological charge analysis of dynamic process of transition to N\'eel-type skyrmion: role of domain wall skyrmions

TL;DR

This paper investigates the dynamic process of Neel skyrmion formation through micromagnetic simulations, revealing the crucial role of domain wall skyrmions and topological defect interactions in skyrmion creation.

Contribution

It uncovers the detailed topological evolution during skyrmion creation, emphasizing the importance of domain wall skyrmions over overall topological charge.

Findings

Annihilation of domain wall skyrmions governs skyrmion creation.

Topological charge evolution depends on defect interactions.

Dynamic process differs from static energetics understanding.

Abstract

Magnetic skyrmions are intriguing topological spin textures that promise future high-density spintronic devices. The creation of magnetic skyrmions has been understood based on the energetics of skyrmions, but the detailed dynamic process of the skyrmion creation remains unclear. Here topological evolution in conversion from uneven domains to N\'eel-skyrmions is investigated using micromagnetic simulations. We find that, rather than the overall topological charge, annihilation of novel topological defects, i.e., recently suggested domain wall skyrmions, dominantly govern the skyrmion creation process. Also, the topological charge evolution is interpreted in terms of the number and the combination of such topological defects.