Magnetic properties and microstructural analyses of Pt/Co/Gd2O3 films. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Minghua; Li, Qingxiu; Zhang, Shijie; Fu, Jiacheng; Gu, Feifei; Ma, Wenzhe; Shi, Hui; Yu, Guanghua
• Is Part Of: Vacuum. Volume 205(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Pt/Co/Gd2O3 -- Anomalous Hall effect -- Perpendicular magnetic anisotropy -- Moderate CoOx -- Smooth surface -- Crystallization; Vacuum -- Periodicals; 621.55
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vacuum.2022.111410
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0042-207X

Abstract

Abstract: The effects of capping layers (Pt, Ta and no capping layer), and heat-treatment temperature on magnetic properties of Pt/Co/Gd2 O3 films were systematically studied. The capping layers were found to have a great effect on the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). The deposition of Gd2 O3 is beneficial for obtaining strong PMA. The increase of annealing temperature is also advantageous for obtaining large PMA. PMA remained the strongest at an annealing temperature of 500 °C. The O atoms in CoOx reacted with the Gd in GdOx, strengthening the PMA by modulating CoOx for the annealed Pt(3)/Co(1.5)/Gd2 O3 (2)/Ta(2) film. The Pt/Co layers crystallized, CoPt3 (111) structure formed, and a smooth surface was obtained after annealing. However, serious diffusion of the Pt, Co, and Ta layers was observed. The crystallized Pt/Co layer, moderate CoOx, and an interface with low roughness were found to be critical for obtaining strong PMA. Highlights: The magnetic properties are related to the capping layers, Gd2 O3 and annealing temperature of Pt(3)/Co(1.5) films. The crystallized Pt/Co layer, moderate CoOx, and an interface with low roughness were critical for obtaining strong PMA. Gd2 O3 deposition is a good way to increase the PMA in the Pt/Co magnetic films.