Spin orbit torque switching of antiferromagnet through the Neel reorientation in rare-earth ferrite

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a novel spin-orbit torque method to coherently switch antiferromagnetic spins in orthoferrite, enabling deterministic control of the Neel vector for potential ultrafast spintronic applications.

Contribution

It introduces a new mechanism for spin switching via Neel reorientation in rare-earth ferrites, combining numerical and analytical analysis, and proposes XOR logic implementation within a single magnetic layer.

Findings

Deterministic switching of Neel vector achieved using SOT.

XOR logic gates implemented in a single magnetic layer.

Magnetic parameters influence critical reorientation and current density.

Abstract

We suggest coherent switching of canted antiferromagnetic (AFM) spins using spin-orbit torque (SOT) in small magnet. The magnetic system of orthoferrite features biaxial easy anisotropy and the Dzyaloshinskii Moriya interaction, which is perpendicular to the easy axes and therefore creates weak magnetization (m). A damping-like component of the SOT induces N\'eel reorientation along one of the easy axes and then exerts torque on m, leading to tilting of the N\'eel order l. The torque on the magnetization becomes stronger due to coupling with the induced Oersted field or the field-like component of the SOT, enhancing the tilting of l. Therefore, l is found to experience deterministic switching after the SOT is turned off. Based upon both numerical and analytical analysis of the coherent switching, XOR logic gates are also found to be implemented in a single magnetic layer. In addition, we investigate how magnetic parameters affect the critical reorientation angle and current density in a simple layered structure of platinum and a canted AFM. Our findings are expected to provide an alternative spin-switching mechanism for ultrafast applications such as spin logic and electronic devices.