Atomic-resolution imaging of magnetism via ptychographic phase retrieval

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that electron ptychography can accurately separate magnetic phase information from electrostatic signals, enabling atomic-resolution imaging of spin textures in magnetic materials and devices.

Contribution

The study introduces a method to distinguish magnetic phase from electrostatic phase in electron ptychography for atomic-scale magnetic imaging.

Findings

Magnetic phase can be separated from electrostatic phase using ptychography.

Atomic-resolution imaging of spin textures is achievable.

Magnetic phase retrieval enhances understanding of magnetic materials.

Abstract

Atomic-scale characterization of spin textures in solids is essential for understanding and tuning properties of magnetic materials and devices. While high-energy electrons are employed for atomic-scale imaging of materials, they are insensitive to the spin textures. In general, the magnetic contribution to the phase of high-energy electron wave is 1000 times weaker than the electrostatic potential. Via accurate phase retrieval through electron ptychography, here we show that the magnetic phase can be separated from the electrostatic one, opening the door to atomic-resolution characterization of spin textures in magnetic materials and spintronic devices.