Magnetization Reversal Behaviour of Planar Nanowire Arrays of Fe

Abstract

Systematic investigations of magnetization behavior performed on planar arrays of 30 nm wide Fe-nanowires (NW) fabricated on oxidized step-bunched Si (111) templates reveal that the NW arrays exhibit an uniaxial anisotropy dominated by the shape of the wires, that facilitates in retaining the magnetization in-plane with easy axis parallel to the wires. The NWs possess polycrystalline character with bcc-crystal structure, and present an oxidized interface when capped with MgO. From the temperature dependent magnetization studies we find that for thick wires (>4.5 nm) the magnetization reversal is governed by the curling reversal mode. Whereas, for thin wires the reversal is dominated by thermal activation.

Self-organization and FORC-based magnetic characterization of ultra-high aspect ratio epitaxial Co nanostrips produced by oblique deposition on an ordered step-bunched silicon surface

“…Using the self-organization of Si steps during the direct current heating [31][32][33][34] and oblique deposition at small angles [35], the planar arrays of polycrystalline Fe and Co NSs [36,37] were produced and investigated. A study of the magnetic properties of such NS arrays in dependence on the ratio of the width and length of the NWs (aspect ratio) and on the distance between them, is important for their practical use.…”

“…A study of the magnetic properties of such NS arrays in dependence on the ratio of the width and length of the NWs (aspect ratio) and on the distance between them, is important for their practical use. Polycrystalline NSs with a high aspect ratio have been quite well studied [36][37][38]. However, highly ordered planar arrays of epitaxial Co NSs with a high aspect ratio have not been previously prepared.…”