The influence of weak links on magnetic ordering in layered structures

• We discuss the magnetic ordering in layered magnets with two different inherent ordering temperatures. A [V(12 ML)Fe(2 ML)/V(12 ML)(/Fe(3 ML)](70) superlattice with anti-ferromagnetic interlayer exchange coupling is used for this purpose. The more rapid decrease of the magnetic moment in the 2 monolayer thick Fe layers influences the ordering in a non-trivial way. A distribution of the effective ordering temperature is inferred, originating from a more rapid decrease of the magnetic moment in the near-surface region, as compared to the interior of the sample. The results clearly demonstrate the need to consider all energy and length scales when addressing ordering in materials with finite extension.

Subject headings

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Fysik (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Physical Sciences (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Physics

Fysik

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)