THz pulses from optically excited Fe-, Pt- and Ta-based spintronic heterostructures

Spintronic heterostructures are considered to be the new generation terahertz (THz) sources because of their capability of producing high power and broadband THz radiation. Here, we provide a brief review on the state-of-the-art in this field. The optically excited bi- and tri-layer combinations of ferromagnetic and non-magnetic thin films have become increasingly popular. Towards optimising the THz conversion efficiency and broadband gapless spectrum from these THz emitters, various control parameters need to be taken into consideration. The inverse spin Hall effect in the heavy metal layer of the heterostructure is primarily responsible for the generation of THz pulses. A few new results on iron-, platinum- and tantalum-based heterostructures have also been reported here. It is observed that the Ta(2 nm)/Fe(2 nm)/Pt(2 nm) tri-layer heterostructure generates similar to 40(250)% stronger THz signal than the counterpart Fe(2 nm)/Pt(2 nm) (Fe(3 nm)/Ta(2 nm)) bi-layer heterostructure.

Automated summary

Spintronic heterostructures are considered as the new generation terahertz sources due to their capability of producing high power and broadband THz radiation. By using optically excited bi- and tri-layer combinations of ferromagnetic and non-magnetic thin films, the efficiency and broadband spectrum of THz emitters can be optimized. The inverse spin Hall effect in the heavy metal layer of the heterostructure is primarily responsible for generating THz pulses.