Magnetic Switching of a Single Molecular Magnet due to Spin-Polarized Current

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical study demonstrating how spin-polarized current can reversibly switch the magnetic state of a single molecular magnet, with observable effects in current-voltage behavior.

Contribution

It introduces a model for magnetic switching of a single molecular magnet driven by spin-polarized current, including calculations of current and spin relaxation times.

Findings

Spin of the SMM can be reversed by applying voltage.

Switching is observable in current-voltage characteristics.

Theoretical framework for spin-dependent tunneling in SMMs.

Abstract

Magnetic switching of a single molecular magnet (SMM) due to spin-polarized current flowing between ferromagnetic metallic electrodes is investigated theoretically. Magnetic moments of the electrodes are assumed to be collinear and parallel to the magnetic easy axis of the molecule. Electrons tunneling through a barrier between magnetic leads are coupled to the SMM via exchange interaction. The current flowing through the system as well as the spin relaxation times of the SMM are calculated from the Fermi golden rule. It is shown that spin of the SMM can be reversed by applying a voltage between the two magnetic electrodes. Moreover, the switching is reflected in the corresponding current-voltage characteristics.