Plasmonic Skyrmion Lattice Based on the Magnetoelectric Effect

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Nanophotonics

Background:

• Skyrmions are topologically protected magnetic quasiparticles with potential applications in data storage and spintronics.
• Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are electromagnetic waves coupled to electron oscillations at a metal-dielectric interface, offering nanoscale light confinement.
• Combining plasmonics and skyrmionics presents novel avenues for manipulating magnetic structures at the nanoscale.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically investigate the physical mechanism behind the formation of plasmonic skyrmion lattices.
• To elucidate the role of surface plasmon polaritons in creating an optical lattice for skyrmion confinement.
• To establish a theoretical framework applicable to materials like yttrium iron garnet and multiferroics.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling of the interaction between surface plasmon polaritons and magnetic layers.
• Analysis of the standing interference patterns generated by coherent or incoherent laser sources.
• Investigation of the magnetoelectric effect and electric fields from plasmon waves for skyrmion confinement.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated that an optical lattice, formed by SPP interference, acts as the confinement mechanism for skyrmions.
• Identified nodal points in the plasmonic interference pattern as the lattice sites for skyrmion confinement.
• Showcased the role of the magnetoelectric effect in binding skyrmions to these plasmonically defined lattice sites.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a theoretical foundation for plasmonic skyrmion lattice formation.
• This work bridges plasmonics and skyrmionics, offering a new method for creating and controlling skyrmion lattices.
• The proposed model is relevant for experimental realization in materials like yttrium iron garnet and multiferroics.