Enhanced magnetic signal along edges of embedded epitaxial La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 nanostructures

Highlights: • Enhanced magnetic dichroism signal is found along edges of embedded LSMO nanomagnets. • XRD measurements reveal asymmetric changes to lattice parameters. • Magnetic domains near edges reorganize close to T_C. When thin films are patterned to realize nanoscale device geometries, maintaining their structural integrity is key to the quality of their functional properties. The introduction of new surfaces and interfaces by lateral modifications may alter material properties as well as the expected device functionality. In this study, two different techniques for nanoscale patterning of epitaxial thin films of La_0.7Sr_0.3MnO₃ are used to investigate the effects on their ferromagnetic properties and film crystalline structure. Nanomagnets are realized as free-standing structures and embedded ferromagnets in a paramagnetic matrix, respectively. We find that the magnetic dichroism signal in x-ray spectomicroscopy is stronger along the edges of the embedded magnets close to T_C. X-ray-diffraction measurements reveal a reduction of their in-plane lattice parameters. We discuss how in-plane stress from the nanomagnet surroundings can affect the magnetic properties in these structures.