Topological Hall effect in SrRuO₃thin films and heterostructures

Area of Science:

• Condensed matter physics
• Materials science
• Solid-state chemistry

Background:

• Transition metal oxides possess unique properties from strong electron correlations.
• Spin-orbit coupling (SOC) in 4d and 5d oxides enables exotic phases like unconventional magnetism and topological superconductivity.
• Topological Hall effects (THEs) and magnetic skyrmions have been observed in SrRuO3 (SRO) thin films and heterostructures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on THE and skyrmions in SRO films interfaced with various materials.
• To highlight the role of SOC and interface symmetry breaking in realizing these phenomena.
• To explore the electric tuning of THE in oxide heterostructures.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental observations of THE and magnetic skyrmions in SRO-based heterostructures.
• Analysis of the influence of interface engineering and material combinations.
• Discussion of electric field effects on THE.

Main Results:

• Observation of THE and magnetic skyrmions in SRO thin films and heterostructures.
• Identification of SOC and broken inversion symmetry at interfaces as key factors.
• Demonstration of electric tuning capabilities for THE.

Conclusions:

• Magnetic skyrmions in oxides provide a platform for studying topological physics in correlated electron systems.
• Oxide-based magnetic skyrmions offer potential for low-power spintronic devices.
• Future research should focus on further exploring electric tuning and device applications.