Synthesis and magnetotransport properties of nanometric spin valve arrays fabricated by electrodeposition

In this paper we introduce a new method for producing nanoscale spin valve arrays. The deposition of NiFe/Cu/NiFe/MnNi spin valve structures was carried out in self-organized nanoporous anodized aluminium templates by using an electrodeposition technique involving three baths of different solutions. Field emission scanning electron microscopy observation reveals that the nanometric spin valve arrays, of uniform size, are well separated and exhibit a very perfect two-dimensional array with a hexagonal pattern. Post-thermal treatment yields highly (111) oriented spin valve films with a giant magnetoresistance ratio of above 4%. The pinning field is about 700 Oe for the nanoscale spin valves film and it stays constant up to 200 deg. C. These nanoscale spin valve arrays are highly thermally stable and, thus, suitable for the application of high density recording heads