Cluster magnetic octupole induced out-of-plane spin polarization in antiperovskite antiferromagnet

Abstract

Out-of-plane spin polarization σ_z has attracted increasing interests of researchers recently, due to its potential in high-density and low-power spintronic devices. Noncollinear antiferromagnet (AFM), which has unique 120° triangular spin configuration, has been discovered to possess σ_z. However, the physical origin of σ_z in noncollinear AFM is still not clear, and the external magnetic field-free switching of perpendicular magnetic layer using the corresponding σ_z has not been reported yet. Here, we use the cluster magnetic octupole in antiperovskite AFM Mn3SnN to demonstrate the generation of σ_z. σ_z is induced by the precession of carrier spins when currents flow through the cluster magnetic octupole, which also relies on the direction of the cluster magnetic octupole in conjunction with the applied current. With the aid of σ_z, current induced spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching of adjacent perpendicular ferromagnet is realized without external magnetic field. Our findings present a new perspective to the generation of out-of-plane spin polarizations via noncollinear AFM spin structure, and provide a potential path to realize ultrafast high-density applications.

23 pages, 4 figures, accepted by Nat. Commun