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Finite-Size Effect in Phonon-Induced Elliott-Yafet Spin Relaxation in Al
J D Watts1,2, J T Batley2, N A Rabideau2
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA.
Physical Review Letters
|June 3, 2022
Summary
The Elliott-Yafet theory
Area of Science:
- Condensed matter physics
- Materials science
Background:
- The Elliott-Yafet theory describes spin relaxation in metals.
- It predicts a relationship between spin and momentum relaxation times due to scattering.
- This theory is crucial for understanding electron spin dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally test the Elliott-Yafet theory in aluminum (Al) nanowires.
- To investigate the influence of finite size on spin relaxation.
- To explore the role of phonon scattering and spin-orbit coupling in Al nanowires.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and characterization of Al nanowires with varying thicknesses (8.5-300 nm).
- Experimental measurement of spin and momentum relaxation times.
- Analytical and numerical modeling to understand observed phenomena.
Main Results:
- The Elliott-Yafet proportionality constant deviates significantly from theoretical predictions in thin Al nanowires.
- A strong finite-size effect on spin relaxation was observed.
- Phonon scattering at surfaces and interfaces significantly enhances spin relaxation.
Conclusions:
- The Elliott-Yafet theory requires modification to account for finite-size effects in nanowires.
- Surface and interface effects, particularly enhanced spin-orbit coupling, play a critical role in spin relaxation.
- Understanding these effects is vital for spintronic applications.
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