Angular dependence and origin of asymmetric magnetization reversal in exchange-biased Fe/FeF2(110)

Asymmetric magnetization reversal in exchange-biased Fe/FeF(2) has been analyzed by magneto-optic Kerr loops transverse to the measuring field. Noncollinear cooling-field and measuring-field directions yield a complex phase diagram of distinct transverse reversal modes. The phase diagram is simulated by a simple total-energy-density model, including noncollinear anisotropies and magnetization rotation. Asymmetric magnetization reversal occurs for 360 degrees of cooling-field directions if these are noncollinear with measuring-field and exchange-bias directions except near easy and hard axes.