Current-Induced Modulation of Spin-Wave Propagation in a Y-Junction via Transverse Spin-Transfer Torque

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of controlling spin-wave propagation in a Y-junction using transverse spin-transfer torque, combining simulations and experiments to show current-dependent routing in magnonic circuits.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method for modulating spin-wave paths via local current injection, supported by both micromagnetic simulations and experimental validation.

Findings

Current-dependent amplitude differences in output branches

Qualitative agreement with simulation predictions

Proof-of-concept for current-controlled spin-wave routing

Abstract

We report the transverse control of spin-wave propagation in the configuration where the spin-wave wavevector k is perpendicular to the charge-current density J. Building on theoretical predictions of spin-wave refraction by nonuniform spin-polarized currents, and guided by micromagnetic simulations used to optimize the device geometry and current distribution, we experimentally explore a Y-shaped Permalloy structure in which a locally injected current perturbs the spin-wave dispersion. Measurements reveal current-dependent amplitude differences between the two output branches, providing initial experimental indications consistent with transverse, spin-transfer-torque-driven deflection. Although the magnitude of the effect is modest and accompanied by significant uncertainties, the observed trends qualitatively follow expectations from the simulations. These results demonstrate the feasibility of influencing spin-wave routing through local current injection and establish a proof-of-concept basis for current-controlled manipulation of spin-wave propagation in reconfigurable magnonic circuits.