Investigation of the influence of interfaces on the magnetotransport in ultrathin films

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Hans Peter Oepen
• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: from 2013 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 245874528

Recently, we have discovered a novel magnetotransport effect in ultrathin Co layers sandwiched by Pt films: The anisotropic interface magnetoresistance (AIMR). In the first experiments we could demonstrate that the AIMR is caused by the Co/Pt interface. The main goal of this research project is to get a deeper insight into the underlying physics and to understand what mechanism is responsible for the effect on a microscopic scale. For that purpose we will vary the experimental parameters of sample fabrication, i.e. texture, interface quality, multilayer and substrate materials, and study their direct and indirect influence on the magnetoresistance. In particular it is planned to create multilayers of better structural quality that allows to decrease the Pt interlayer thickness. The latter gives an increase of Co/Pt ratio, which probably will enhance the AIMR. So far, the AIMR effect has been found for the current in the plane (CIP) geometry. Utilizing 3D-nano pillars we will look for indications of the AIMR also in a current perpendicular to the plane (CPP) geometry. The understanding of the underlying physics will be essential for optimizing the AIMR magnitude, to pave the way for possible technological applications.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Andreas Schreyer