Characteristic magnetic domain size in Fe with exchange-coupled antiferromagnetic NiO underlayer

摘要

<br/>Characteristic size of magnetic domains in Fe films deposited on NiO layers was measured by spin-polarized low-energy electron microscopy. Our observation results and statistical analysis revealed the increase of magnetic domain sizes with the Fe-thickness increase. Interestingly, the evolution of magnetic domain sizes in Fe showed a strong dependence on the thickness of NiO underneath, or thicker NiO lead the formation of smaller magnetic domains in Fe. This phenomenon can be explained by the increase of the interlayer exchange coupling between Fe and the polycrystalline NiO. It is consistent with the results of recent studies that spin dynamics at a ferromagnet/antiferromagnet interface is affected by the domain structure. Our results suggest a new route to manipulate the micromagnetic structure without the application of external magnetic field.

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