Non-collinear single-electron spin-valve transistors

TL;DR

This paper investigates how non-local exchange interactions influence transport properties in a single-electron spin-valve transistor, revealing effects on current and spin-transfer torque depending on magnetic configuration, gate voltage, and magnetic field.

Contribution

It introduces the impact of non-local exchange interactions on transport in a Coulomb blockade regime for the first time.

Findings

Non-local exchange affects electric current.

Spin-transfer torque is modified by magnetic configuration.

Transport properties depend on gate voltage and magnetic field.

Abstract

We study interaction effects on transport through a small metallic cluster connected to two ferromagnetic leads (a single-electron spin-valve transistor) in the "orthodox model" for the Coulomb blockade. The non-local exchange between the spin accumulation on the island and the ferromagnetic leads is shown to affect the transport properties such as the electric current and spin-transfer torque as a function of the magnetic configuration, gate voltage, and applied magnetic field.