Defect-induced magnetism in TiO2: An example of quasi 2D magnetic order with perpendicular anisotropy

Magnetic order at room temperature induced by atomic lattice defects, like vacancies, interstitials, or their pairs, has been observed in a large number of different non-magnetic hosts, such as pure graphite, oxides, and silicon-based materials. High Curie temperatures and time-independent magnetic response at room temperature indicate the extraordinary robustness of this new phenomenon in solid-state magnetism. In this work, we review experimental and theoretical results of pure TiO2 (anatase), whose magnetic order can be triggered by low-energy ion irradiation. In particular, we discuss the systematic observation of an ultrathin magnetic layer with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at the surface of this oxide.

Automated summary

Magnetic order induced by atomic lattice defects can be observed at room temperature in various non-magnetic hosts. Pure TiO2 (anatase) shows an ultrathin magnetic layer with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at its surface when triggered by low-energy ion irradiation.