Multi-scale modelling of current-induced switching in magnetic tunnel junctions using ab initio spin transfer torques
arXiv:1710.00574 · doi:10.1103/PhysRevB.96.224410
Abstract
There exists a significant challenge in developing efficient magnetic tunnel junctions with low write currents for non-volatile memory devices. With the aim of analysing potential materials for efficient current-operated magnetic junctions we have developed a multi-scale methodology combining the ab initio calculations of spin-transfer torque with large-scale time-dependent simulations using atomistic spin dynamics. In this work we introduce our multi-scale approach including a discussion on a number of possible mapping schemes the ab initio spin torques into the spin dynamics. We demonstrate this methodology on a prototype Co/MgO/Co/Cu tunnel junction showing that the spin torques are primarily acting at the interface between the Co free layer and MgO. Using spin dynamics we then calculate the reversal switching times for the free layer and the critical voltages and currents required for such switching. Our work provides an efficient, accurate and versatile framework for designing novel current-operated magnetic devices, where all the materials details are take into account.
8 pages, 7 figures, submitted to Physical Review B
References in corpus (8)
- Spin Transfer Torques
- The 2014 Magnetism Roadmap
- Spin-Torque Driven Magnetization Dynamics: Micromagnetic Modelling
- Ab initio studies of the spin-transfer torque in tunnel junctions
- Ab-initio GMR and current-induced torques in Au/Cr multilayers
- Resonant electronic states and I-V curves of Fe/MgO/Fe(100) tunnel junctions
- Current Induced Order Parameter Dynamics: Microscopic Theory Applied to Co/Cu/Co spin valves
- First-principles spin-transfer torque in CuMnAsGaPCuMnAs junctions