Spin-torque critical current tuned by stress

Abstract

Excessive spin-torque critical current has long been a problem received much attention. In this paper, we suggest that by introducing the out-of-plane stress or the stress anisotropy field, the out-of-plane demagnetizing field can be compensated effectively, and in this way the spin-torque critical current can be reduced. Specifically, the four-component distributed spin-circuit model is used to calculate the polarization current which is transferred from the polarizer to the detector (free layer).The properties of magnetization switching in the free layer of the lateral spin valve are studied under the influence of stress by using the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert-Slonczewski (LLGS) equation. Results show that, if the stress direction is appropriately selected, the out-of-plane demagnetizing field can be effectively compensated, thereby the spin torque critical current can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, as the stress is increased and the demagnetizing field is reduced, the magnetization reversal time is greatly reduced.