Manifold domain structure of double films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy

Abstract

Abstract.We present epitaxial structures made of twin nickel blocks with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy separated by a copper layer which, for some values of this interleaving layer, show domain structures with four levels of contrast in magnetic force microscopy images. This manifold domain structure implies that the magnetization in the Ni blocks, besides the parallel orientation, undergoes a non-collinear configuration with respect to each other. To explain this result we consider a magnetoelastic domain structure with M in the plane that can elude the clamping done by the substrate with an average strain of -42 · 10 −6 (≈ 70% of the bulk value). Thus, the out-of-plane anisotropy is balanced and a biquadratic exchange coupling can stabilizes non-collinear domain configurations between the Ni blocks.

Mapping Orbital-Resolved Magnetism in Single Lanthanide Atoms

“…Nevertheless, access to their magnetic states is enabled through their magnetically coupled valence electrons, either localized on the molecular ligand 8,9,13 or on the outer orbitals of the atoms. 12,14 Therefore, probing the electronic configuration and spin-polarization of the valence orbitals not only allows one to design molecular magnets with multiorbital spin configuration and accessible magnetic states 15,16 but also to rationalize the quantum level structure of surface-adsorbed atoms with open valence shells. 12 However, a direct measurement of the magnetic properties of the valence electrons for surface-adsorbed isolated atoms or molecules was still missing.…”