Challenges in electrical detection of spin-orbit torque in Ir20Mn80/Pt hetero-structures

Manipulation of antiferromagnetic sublattice orientations, a key challenge in spintronic device applications, requires unconventional methods such as current induced torques including Spin Transfer Torque (STT) and Spin-Orbit Torque (SOT). In order to observe the deviation of the Neel vector from the anisotropy axis, one of the simplest approaches is the electrical detection, whereby one monitors the change in resistance as a function of applied current. In this work, we have investigated the conditions under which an ultra-thin metallic antiferromagnet, Ir20Mn80 becomes susceptible to SOT effects by studying antiferromagnetic layer structure and thickness dependence in antiferromagnetic metal (Ir20Mn80)/heavy metal (Pt) superlattices. Our electrical measurements reveal that in bilayer structures there exists a shallow range of Ir20Mn80 thicknesses (similar to 1-2 nm) for which SOT driven control of spins is apparent, whereas for lower thicknesses incomplete sublattice formation and for higher thicknesses improved thermal stability prohibits vulnerability to spin currents. Furthermore, in multilayers, structural changes in Ir20Mn80 layer quenches local torques due to stronger (111) magnetocrystalline anisotropy. These results suggest that an exhaustive optimization of the antiferromagnet parameters is crucial for the successful deployment of spintronic devices.

Automated summary

This study investigates the conditions under which an ultra-thin metallic antiferromagnet becomes susceptible to spin-orbit torques. The results indicate that there is a specific range of thickness where the spins can be controlled by spin-orbit torques, while lower and higher thicknesses affect the sensitivity to spin currents. Structural changes in multilayers also quench local torques.