Magnetization reversal and interlayer coupling in magnetic tunneling junctions

Abstract

We have studied the switching properties of micron-scale magnetic tunnel junctions in two-dimensional magnetic fields. We present data on interlayer magnetic coupling for multiple samples. We interpret these data as the sum of a magnetostatic and a Néel coupling contribution. The data are presented as functions of layer structure. In addition, we have extracted information about interface roughness. We have also studied the area of switching critical curves as a function of device geometry. © 2000 American Institute of Physics.