Electron concentration dependent magnetization and magnetic anisotropy in ZnO:Mn thin films

Well-above room temperature and electron concentration dependent ferromagnetism was observed in n-type ZnO:Mn films, indicating long-range ferromagnetic order. Magnetic anisotropy was also observed in these ZnO:Mn films, which is another indication for intrinsic ferromagnetism. The electron-mediated ferromagnetism in n-type ZnO:Mn contradicts the existing theory that the magnetic exchange in ZnO:Mn materials is mediated by holes. (c) 2008 American Institute of Physics.