Anomalous Hall effect in electrolytically reduced PdCoO$_2$ thin films

TL;DR

This study shows that electrolytically reducing PdCoO$_2$ thin films induces an anomalous Hall effect, with the ability to switch its sign, suggesting potential applications in spintronics.

Contribution

It is the first demonstration of AHE in electrolytically reduced PdCoO$_2$ films and shows control over the AHE sign through electrolytic processes.

Findings

Electrolytic reduction induces AHE in PdCoO$_2$ films.

The sign of AHE can be switched via electrolytic treatment.

Modified PdCoO$_2$ films have potential in spintronics applications.

Abstract

PdCoO$_2$, being highly conductive and anisotropic, is a promising material for fundamental and technological applications. Recently, reduced PdCoO$_2$ thin films were shown to exhibit ferromagnetism after hydrogen annealing. Here, we demonstrate that when PdCoO$_2$ film is used as a cathode for dissociation of water, hydrogen generated around the film reduces the material and leads to the emergence of anomalous Hall effect (AHE). Moreover, we demonstrate that the sign of the AHE signal can also be changed with the electrolytic process. Electrolytically-modified PdCoO$_2$ films may open a door to applications in spintronics.