Quantum Magnetic Deflagration in Mn12 Acetate

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates controlled magnetization reversal avalanches in Mn12 acetate triggered by surface acoustic waves, revealing maxima in avalanche speed at quantum tunneling resonances, indicating a novel quantum-assisted deflagration phenomenon.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of quantum tunneling-assisted magnetic deflagration in Mn12 acetate, combining experimental control with quantum resonance effects.

Findings

Avalanche speed peaks at tunneling resonances.

Magnetization reversal can be controlled by surface acoustic waves.

Evidence suggests a new quantum-assisted deflagration process.

Abstract

We report controlled ignition of magnetization reversal avalanches by surface acoustic waves in a single crystal of Mn12 acetate. Our data show that the speed of the avalanche exhibits maxima on the magnetic field at the tunneling resonances of Mn12. Combined with the evidence of magnetic deflagration in Mn12 acetate (Suzuki et al., cond-mat/0506569) this suggests a novel physical phenomenon: deflagration assisted by quantum tunneling.