Ultra-efficient spin–orbit torque induced magnetic switching in W/CoFeB/MgO structures

Spin–orbit torque (SOT) induced magnetic switching in heavy metal/ferromagnet structures with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) is promising for energy efficient spintronic devices. Here, we studied the SOT induced magnetic switching in perpendicular W/Co₂₀Fe₆₀B₂₀/MgO structures. We demonstrated the critical current density for the SOT induced switching is as low as 1.15 × 10⁶ A cm⁻² in the presence of an in-plane magnetic field, which is very energy efficient in terms of magnetic switching. We attribute this ultra-efficient magnetic switching to the high spin Hall angle of the W layer and the ultra-low domain wall pinning field of the CoFeB. The SOT induced switching procedure was directly observed by a high-resolution Kerr microscopy. Furthermore, the weak Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya interactions are shown to be favorable for switching. Our experiments physically explained the ultra-efficient SOT induced magnetic switching in W/CoFeB/MgO structures, and direct observation of the switching procedure can improve the comprehensive understanding of this dynamic process and further promote the study of SOT based memory devices. (paper)