Reduction of critical current density for spin transfer magnetization switching in a spin-valve nano-pillar

C. H. Kang, J. C. Lee, K. H. Shin, S. H. Lim

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    Abstract

    Experimental results on the current induced magnetization switching of nano-patterned IrMn/CoFe/Cu/CoFe spin-valves are reported. The main emphasis is the increase of MR and the reduction of the critical current density through an improved fabrication process. A method using a batch-fabricated trilayer template is developed with the junction features defined by a platinum(Pt) stencil mask. Nano-pillars with the lateral dimensions (150×80 nm 2) are fabricated by electron-beam lithography, including a wet etching to form a nanotemplate. A key to the improved fabrication process is the formation of the recessed part of the SiO2 layer which helps to reduce the shadow effect during the deposition of the spin valve multilayers into the nanotemplate. Both the MR ratio and the critical current density are enhanced by the new improved fabrication process. The observed critical current density is 5.98 ×106 A/cm2, which is significantly smaller than the value of 1.16×108 A/cm2 observed in a similar device fabricated using a conventional fabrication process.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publication2006 IEEE Nanotechnology Materials and Devices Conference, NMDC
    Pages614-615
    Number of pages2
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2006
    Event2006 IEEE Nanotechnology Materials and Devices Conference, NMDC - Gyeongju, Korea, Republic of
    Duration: 2006 Oct 222006 Oct 25

    Publication series

    Name2006 IEEE Nanotechnology Materials and Devices Conference, NMDC
    Volume1

    Other

    Other2006 IEEE Nanotechnology Materials and Devices Conference, NMDC
    Country/TerritoryKorea, Republic of
    CityGyeongju
    Period06/10/2206/10/25

    Keywords

    • Current-induced magnetization switching
    • Improved fabrication process
    • Spin transfr torque
    • Spin-valve nano-pillar

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
    • General Materials Science

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