Atomistic modeling of magnetization reversal modes in $L{1}_0$ FePt nanodots with magnetically soft edges

Abstract

Nanopatterned FePt nano-dots often exhibit low coercivity and a broad switching field distribution, which could arise due to edge damage during the patterning process causing a reduction in the $L{1}_0$ ordering required for a high magnetocrystalline anisotropy. Using an atomistic spin model, we study the magnetization reversal behavior of $L{1}_0$ FePt nanodots with soft magnetic edges. We show that reversal is initiated by nucleation for the whole range of edge widths studied. For narrow soft edges the individual nucleation events dominate reversal; for wider edges, multiple nucleation at the edge creates a circular domain wall at the interface which precedes complete reversal. Our simulations compare well with available analytical theories. The increased edge width further reduces and saturates the required nucleation field. The nucleation field and the activation volume manipulate the thermally induced switching field distribution. By control of the properties of dot edges using proper patterning methods, it should be possible to realize exchange spring bit patterned media without additional soft layers.

arXiv comment9 pages and 6 figures

References in corpus (6)

• Atomistic spin model simulations of magnetic nanomaterials
• Temperature dependent magnetic properties of FePt: effective spin Hamiltonian model
• Constrained Monte Carlo Method and Calculation of the Temperature Dependence of Magnetic Anisotropy
• Domain Wall Assisted Magnetic Recording
• Exchange coupled perpendicular media
• Effects of boundary conditions on magnetization switching in kinetic Ising models of nanoscale ferromagnets

Cited by in corpus (5)

• Fundamental limits in heat assisted magnetic recording and methods to overcome it with exchange spring structures
• Domain configurations in Co/Pd and L10-FePt nanowire arrays with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy
• Spin-Transfer-Torque Induced Spatially Nonuniform Switching in Ferrimagnets
• Reversal of magnetisation in Ising ferromagnet by the field having gradient
• Spin Dynamics in Driven Composite Multiferroics