Stability of domains and pinning near the ferromagnet/antiferromagnet interface

Summary form only given. The effects of random defects on bias shifts and coercivity are explored using numerical simulations, with an emphasis on how the nature and location of magnetic defects can pin domain walls and stabilize exchange bias. The development of coercivity through domain pinning by defect sites is also examined. Results of calculations using models for thermal dependence are presented. It is shown how partial walls formed at uncompensated interfaces are weakened by thermal effects, and a mechanism is presented for simultaneous suppression of bias shift and formation of coercivity due to thermal depinning of the partial walls. Finally, experimental results for bias in epitaxially grown systems are discussed in terms of models for interface quality and bias in compensated structures.