Magnetic order in nanoscale gyroid networks

Three-dimensional magnetic metamaterials feature interesting phenomena that arise from a delicate interplay of material properties, local anisotropy, curvature, and connectivity. A particularly interesting magnetic lattice that combines these aspects is that of nanoscale gyroids, with a highly interconnected chiral network with local three-connectivity reminiscent of three-dimensional artificial spin ices. Here, we use finite-element micromagnetic simulations to elucidate the anisotropic behavior of nanoscale nickel gyroid networks at applied fields and at remanence. We simplify the description of the micromagnetic spin states with a macrospin model to explain the anisotropic global response, to quantify the extent of icelike correlations, and to discuss qualitative features of the anisotropic magnetoresistance in the three-dimensional network. Our results demonstrate the large variability of the magnetic order in extended gyroid networks, which might enable future spintronic functionalities, including neuromorphic computing and nonreciprocal transport.

Automated summary

Three-dimensional magnetic metamaterials with interesting phenomena arising from the interplay of material properties, anisotropy, curvature, and connectivity have attracted attention. Nanoscale gyroids, which have a highly interconnected chiral network reminiscent of artificial spin ices, are particularly interesting. In this study, finite-element micromagnetic simulations were used to investigate the anisotropic behavior of nanoscale nickel gyroid networks under applied fields. The results demonstrate the potential of extended gyroid networks for future spintronic functionalities, such as neuromorphic computing and nonreciprocal transport.