Modeling of ultrafast X-ray induced magnetization dynamics in magnetic multilayer systems

In this work, we report on modeling results obtained with our recently developed simulation tool enabling nanoscopic description of electronic processes in X-ray irradiated ferromagnetic materials. With this tool, we have studied the response of Co/Pt multilayer system irradiated by an ultrafast extreme ultraviolet pulse at the M-edge of Co (photon energy similar to 60 eV). It was previously investigated experimentally at the FERMI free-electron-laser facility, using the magnetic small-angle X-ray scattering technique. Our simulations show that the magnetic scattering signal from cobalt decreases on femtosecond timescales due to electronic excitation, relaxation, and transport processes both in the cobalt and in the platinum layers, following the trend observed in the experimental data. The confirmation of the predominant role of electronic processes for X-ray induced demagnetization in the regime below the structural damage threshold is a step toward quantitative control and manipulation of X-ray induced magnetic processes on femtosecond timescales.

Automated summary

This study uses a newly developed simulation tool to describe electronic processes in nanoscopic scale in X-ray irradiated ferromagnetic materials. The research focuses on the Co/Pt multilayer system and finds that electronic processes play a predominant role in X-ray induced demagnetization.