Study of Spin Pumping through α‐Sn Thin Films. Issue 6 (3rd May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gladczuk, Łukasz; Gladczuk, Leszek; Dluzewski, Piotr; van der Laan, Gerrit; Hesjedal, Thorsten
• Is Part Of: Physica status solidi. Volume 15:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-05-03
• Subjects: ferromagnetic resonance -- spin pumping -- topological insulators -- topological quantum materials; Solid state physics -- Periodicals; 530.4105
• DOI: 10.1002/pssr.202100137
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1862-6254

Abstract

Abstract : Elemental tin in the α‐phase is an intriguing member of the family of topological quantum materials. In thin films, with decreasing thickness, α‐Sn transforms from a 3D topological Dirac semimetal (TDS) to a 2D topological insulator (TI). Getting access to and making use of its topological surface states is challenging and requires interfacing to a magnetically ordered material. Herein, the successful epitaxial growth of α‐Sn thin films on Co, forming the core of a spin‐valve structure, is reported. Time‐ and element‐selective ferromagnetic resonance experiments are conducted to investigate the presence of spin pumping through the spin‐valve structure. A rigorous statistical analysis of the experimental data using a model based on the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert–Slonczewski equation is applied. A strong exchange coupling contribution is found, however no unambiguous proof for spin pumping. Nevertheless, the incorporation of α‐Sn into a spin valve remains a promising approach given its simplicity as an elemental TI and its room‐temperature application potential. Abstract : Elemental tin in the α‐phase is an intriguing member of the family of topological quantum materials. Making use of its topological surface states requires interfacing to a magnetically ordered material. In this work, a major step toward α‐Sn spintronics is made by demonstrating the successful epitaxial growth of α‐Sn thin films on Co, forming the core of a spin‐valve heterostructure.