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Skyrmion-(Anti)Vortex Coupling in a Chiral Magnet-Superconductor Heterostructure
A P Petrović1, M Raju1, X Y Tee1
1Division of Physics and Applied Physics, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore.
Physical Review Letters
|April 2, 2021
Summary
We experimentally coupled chiral magnetism and superconductivity using skyrmions in [IrFeCoPt]/Nb heterostructures. This creates a novel topological hybrid material with tunable properties for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Chiral magnetism and superconductivity are distinct quantum phenomena.
- Controlling their interaction is key for novel electronic devices.
- Skyrmions offer a unique platform for magnetic control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally demonstrate the coupling of chiral magnetism and superconductivity.
- To investigate the nucleation of antivortices by skyrmions in a superconductor.
- To explore the Rashba-Edelstein effect in skyrmion systems.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of [IrFeCoPt]/Nb heterostructures.
- Magnetic characterization of skyrmion nucleation and antivortex dynamics.
- Electrical transport measurements to probe critical current and flux dynamics.
- Computational simulations to corroborate experimental findings.
Main Results:
- Skyrmions with ≈50 nm radius successfully nucleated antivortices in a 25 nm Nb film.
- Observed unique signatures in magnetization, critical current, and flux dynamics.
- Detected a thermally tunable Rashba-Edelstein exchange coupling.
- Experimental data corroborated by simulations.
Conclusions:
- Achieved experimental coupling of chiral magnetism and superconductivity.
- Demonstrated a controllable skyrmion-(anti)vortex system.
- Opened a pathway toward novel topological hybrid materials.
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