Properties of Exchange Bias Coupling Field and Coercivity Using the Micron-size Holes Formation Inside GMR-SV Film

Abstract

The holes with a diameter of 35 µm inside the GMR-SV (giant magnetoresistance-spin valve) film were patterned by using the photolithography process and ECR (electron cyclotron resonance) Ar-ion milling. From the magnetoresistance curves of the GMR-SV film with holes measuring by 4-electrode method, the MR (magnetoresistance ratio) and MS (magnetic sensitivity) are almost same as the values of initial states. On other side hand, the H e x (exchange bias coupling field) and H c (coercivity) dominantly increased from 120 Oe and 10 Oe to 190 Oe and 41 Oe as increment of the number of holes inside GMR-SV film respectively. These results were shown to be attributed to major effect of EMD (easy magnetic domian) having a region positioned between two holes perpendicular to the sensing current. On the basis of this study, the fabrication of GMR-SV applying to the hole formation improved the magnetoresistance properties having the thermal stability and durability of bio-device.