Magnetization Switching in the GdFeCo Films with In-Plane Anisotropy via Femtosecond Laser Pulses

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Ferrimagnetic rare-earth substituted metal alloys like Gadolinium-Iron-Cobalt (GdFeCo) exhibit all-optical magnetization switching (AOMSW) with femtosecond laser pulses.
• Previous studies focused on AOMSW in out-of-plane magnetized GdFeCo films, leaving in-plane magnetized films less explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the phenomenon of all-optical magnetization switching in in-plane magnetized GdFeCo films.
• To determine the conditions and thresholds for achieving magnetization switching in this specific material configuration.

Main Methods:

• Experimental observation of magnetization switching using femtosecond laser pulses.
• Application of a small external magnetic field (approximately 40 µT) to facilitate switching.
• Analysis of the switching behavior in relation to applied magnetic field and laser light intensity thresholds.

Main Results:

• Successfully observed all-optical magnetization switching in in-plane magnetized GdFeCo films.
• Demonstrated that the switching effect is dependent on a threshold in both applied magnetic field and laser light intensity.
• Characterized the switching dynamics under specific experimental conditions.

Conclusions:

• All-optical magnetization switching is achievable in in-plane magnetized GdFeCo films.
• The switching process is controllable and exhibits distinct thresholds, offering potential for novel magnetic data storage applications.
• This study expands the understanding of AOMSW to different magnetic anisotropy configurations.