Finite-size effects in amorphous thin Co${}_{70}$Zr${}_{30}$ layers

Abstract

Profound finite size effects are observed in both the moment and ordering temperature in thin Co${}_{70}$Zr${}_{30}$ layers. The results are consistent with the presence of interface regions with reduced magnetic interactions and moment. The extension of this region is determined to be around 1 nm thick at each interface. Above and near the apparent critical temperature, the magnetic properties can be understood in terms of Griffith phases.