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Visualizing Uniaxial-strain Manipulation of Antiferromagnetic Domains in Fe1+YTe Using a Spin-polarized Scanning Tunneling Microscope
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Optical spin-orbit torque in heavy metal-ferromagnet heterostructures
Gyung-Min Choi1,2,3, Jung Hyun Oh4, Dong-Kyu Lee4
1Department of Energy Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea. gmchoi@skku.edu.
Nature Communications
|March 22, 2020
Summary
Researchers demonstrate optical spin-orbit torques in heavy metal/ferromagnet heterostructures. This breakthrough enables faster magnetization manipulation using light-induced spin currents, advancing spintronics applications.
Area of Science:
- Spintronics
- Materials Science
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Spin current generation via spin-orbit interaction is crucial for spintronics.
- Spin-orbit torque efficiently manipulates ferromagnet magnetization.
- Optical methods offer potential for faster spin current generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate optical spin-orbit torques in heavy metal/ferromagnet heterostructures.
- To explore the potential of light-induced spin currents for magnetization manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of heavy metal/ferromagnet heterostructures.
- Optical excitation of carriers in heavy metals.
- Measurement of spin-polarized carrier transport and resulting torques.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated generation of spin-orbit torques using optical excitation.
- Showcased spin-polarized carrier generation and transport due to strong spin-orbit coupling in heavy metals.
- Confirmed that heavy metals can induce spin-orbit torque both electrically and optically.
Conclusions:
- Heavy metals can generate spin-orbit torques optically, not just electrically.
- Optical spin-orbit torques offer a promising route for high-speed spintronic devices.
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