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Sputter Growth and Characterization of Metamagnetic B2-ordered FeRh Epilayers
Published on: October 5, 2013
Extended Skyrmion phase in epitaxial FeGe(111) thin films
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA. sxhuang@pha.jhu.edu
Physical Review Letters
|September 26, 2012
Summary
The Skyrmion state in iron-germanium (FeGe) thin films exists across all temperatures up to 271 K and at zero magnetic field. Film thickness is key to controlling and stabilizing these magnetic Skyrmions.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Spintronics
Background:
- Skyrmions are topologically protected spin textures with potential applications in data storage.
- Epitaxial B20 FeGe(111) thin films are a promising material system for hosting Skyrmions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phase diagram and stability of the Skyrmion state in FeGe(111) thin films.
- To explore the influence of film thickness on Skyrmion properties.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the topological Hall effect to detect and characterize the Skyrmion state.
- Systematic variation of film thickness and application of magnetic fields.
Main Results:
- The Skyrmion phase was found to extend over a wide range of temperatures (up to T(C)≈271 K) and magnetic fields, including zero field.
- Film thickness was identified as a critical parameter for controlling and stabilizing Skyrmions.
Conclusions:
- The extensive phase diagram of Skyrmions in FeGe(111) films enhances their potential for technological applications.
- Tailoring film thickness offers a viable route for manipulating Skyrmion stability and properties.
