Mapping Reversal Pathways and Interaction Fields in Artificial Spin Ice

TL;DR

This study uses first-order reversal curve measurements and simulations to map how magnetic interactions influence reversal pathways in artificial spin ice, revealing geometry-dependent behaviors and internal magnetization textures.

Contribution

It introduces FORC as a practical method to map and engineer interaction landscapes in artificial spin ice, linking local and collective magnetic behaviors.

Findings

Some geometries reverse more uniformly

Other geometries show broader, asymmetric responses

FORC captures subtle internal magnetization changes

Abstract

In artificial spin ice (ASI), magnetic interactions between nanomagnets determine both the stable states and the switching pathways under an applied field. Here, first-order reversal curve (FORC) measurements are used to map how these interactions govern magnetization reversal in square arrays as the element shape and spacing are varied. The FORC diagrams show that some geometries reverse more uniformly, whereas others exhibit broader, more asymmetric responses, indicating stronger interaction effects and more complex reversal pathways. Combined FORC analysis and micromagnetic simulations also capture subtle changes in internal magnetization textures during switching, linking local behavior within individual elements to collective behavior across the array. These results establish FORC as a practical tool for mapping and engineering interaction landscapes, with direct relevance to reconfigurable magnetic reservoirs and neuromorphic functionality.