A Multilevel Cell for STT-MRAM Realized by Capping Layer Adjustment

A multilevel cell (MLC) allows gigabit high-density integration of a spin-transfer torque magnetic random-access memory (STT-MRAM). In this paper, we present an MLC structure based on MgO/CoFeB interfacial perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) and capping layer adjustment. The effect of capping layer toward interfacial PMA modulation has been investigated by first-principles calculations, which is consistent with the previous experimental results. Two methods have been proposed to realize this STT-MRAM MLC: 1) capping layer thickness and 2) material composition design. Using a physics-based compact model of perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions, resistance-current curves with four-level resistance states are demonstrated, for which the threshold switching currents with clear separations prove the feasibility of this concept.