Finite-size effects in amorphous thin Co$_{70}$Zr$_{30}$ layers

TL;DR

This study investigates finite-size effects on magnetic properties in thin Co70Zr30 layers, revealing interface regions with reduced interactions and Griffith phase behavior near the critical temperature.

Contribution

It provides new insights into how interface regions influence magnetic behavior and finite-size effects in amorphous thin magnetic layers.

Findings

Finite size affects magnetic moment and ordering temperature.

Interface regions are approximately 1 nm thick with reduced magnetic interactions.

Magnetic properties near the critical temperature are explained by Griffith phases.

Abstract

Profound finite size effects are observed in both the moment and ordering temperature in thin Co$_{70}$Zr$_{30}$ layers. The results are consistent with the presence of interface regions with reduced magnetic interactions and moment. The extension of this region is determined to be around 1 nm thick at each interface. Above and near the apparent critical temperature, the magnetic properties can be understood in terms of Griffith phases.