Published September 16, 2002 | Version v1
Journal article

Spin flop transition in a finite antiferromagnetic superlattice: Evolution of the magnetic structure

  • 1. Materials Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Avenue, Argonne, Illinois 60439 (United States)

Description

An antiferromagnetic (AF) superlattice of Fe/Cr(211) is used as a model system to study magnetic transitions in a finite-size geometry. With polarization neutron reflectometry the magnetic structure at the surface spin-flop transition and its evolution with field is determined. A domain wall created near the surface penetrates the superlattice with increasing field, splitting it into two antiphase, AF domains. After reaching the center the spin-flopped phase spreads throughout the superlattice. The experimental results are in substantial agreement with theoretical and numerical predictions

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Physical Review Letters
Journal Volume
89
Journal Issue
12
Journal Page Range
p. 127203-127203.4
ISSN
0031-9007
CODEN
PRLTAO

Optional Information

Notes
(c) 2002 The American Physical Society