Spin–Orbit Torque Switching in a Nearly Compensated Heusler Ferrimagnet

The epitaxial growth of ferrimagnetic Heusler thin films is reported, with magnetic properties optimized based upon concentration and thickness. Efficient current‐induced magnetic switching is demonstrated for a nearly compensated ferrimagnet that has a relatively large thickness and robust stability, opening the door for the possible use of compensated ferrimagnets for fast, energy‐efficient spintronic devices.

Abstract

Ferrimagnetic materials combine the advantages of the low magnetic moment of an antiferromagnet and the ease of realizing magnetic reading of a ferromagnet. Recently, it was demonstrated that compensated ferrimagnetic half metals can be realized in Heusler alloys, where high spin polarization, zero magnetic moment, and low magnetic damping can be achieved at the same time. In this work, by studying the spin–orbit torque induced switching in the Heusler alloy Mn₂Ru_{1− x}Ga, it is found that efficient current‐induced magnetic switching can be realized in a nearly compensated sample with strong perpendicular anisotropy and large film thickness. This work demonstrates the possibility of employing compensated Heusler alloys for fast, energy‐efficient spintronic devices.

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