Interlayer Exchange Coupling in (MnTe)_m (ZnTe)_n Superlattices

TL;DR

This paper theoretically investigates the interlayer exchange coupling in (MnTe)_m (ZnTe)_n superlattices, revealing a rapid and nonmonotonic decay of magnetic coupling with spacer thickness, differing from NaCl structures.

Contribution

The study introduces a theoretical analysis of exchange coupling in MnTe/ZnTe superlattices using a tight binding model, highlighting unique decay behavior.

Findings

Coupling strength decreases faster with spacer thickness than in NaCl structures.

Nonmonotonic decay of exchange coupling observed.

Different magnetic configurations analyzed within the superlattice.

Abstract

The interlayer exchange coupling mediated by the valence band electrons in $\textrm{(MnTe)}_{\textrm{m}} \textrm{(ZnTe)}_{\textrm{n}}$ superlattices has been examined theoretically. The calculations have been performed within the framework of three dimensional tight binding model. Both types of magnetic configurations in the superlattice, resulting from zinc-blende MnTe real magnetic structure, have been considered. The total energy calculations have revealed much faster decrease of the coupling strength with nonmagnetic spacer thickness than that observed in NaCl structures. In addition a new feature -- nonmonotonic character of that decrease -- has been found.