A UHV MOKE magnetometer complementing XMCD-PEEM at the Elettra Synchrotron

Area of Science:

• Surface Science
• Materials Science
• Magnetism
• Synchrotron Radiation

Background:

• Advanced characterization techniques are crucial for understanding magnetic properties of materials at the nanoscale.
• Integrating multiple surface analysis methods enhances comprehensive material investigation.
• Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) compatibility is essential for pristine surface studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a custom-built UHV-compatible Magneto-Optical Kerr Effect (MOKE) magnetometer.
• To enable in-situ magnetic measurements in conjunction with PhotoEmission Electron Microscopy (PEEM).
• To showcase the combined capabilities for advanced surface and materials science applications.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a UHV-compatible MOKE magnetometer with a liquid-nitrogen-cooled electromagnet (up to 140 mT).
• Implementation of longitudinal and polar MOKE geometries utilizing photoelastic modulator-based polarization analysis.
• Integration with a PEEM endstation at the Elettra synchrotron's Nanospectroscopy beamline, ensuring sample manipulation compatibility.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated monolayer sensitivity in magnetic measurements using cobalt ultra-thin films.
• Successful tandem operation with PEEM, allowing complementary X-ray imaging and spectroscopy.
• Verified performance of the custom-built UHV-MOKE magnetometer.

Conclusions:

• The developed UHV-MOKE magnetometer is a versatile tool for surface and materials science.
• Combining in situ growth, XMCD-PEEM, and MOKE magnetometry creates a powerful multitechnique facility.
• This integrated approach facilitates in-depth studies of magnetic phenomena in thin films and nanostructures.