Layered magnetic structures:: facts, figures, future

An overview is given of the most important properties of layered magnetic structures. This includes the effects of interface anisotropy and exchange bias as well as the magnetic properties of ultrathin films in the monolayer range. The current understanding of interlayer exchange coupling, giant magnetoresistance and tunnel magnetoresistance will also be indicated. Future efforts will most likely include interlayer coupling induced by spin injection. Typical and record values for the strengths of the observed effects are compiled from the literature.