Title :
Improved GMR characteristics of specular spin valves by nano-oxide layer formation with mixed gases
Author :
Jang, S.H. ; Kang, T. ; Kim, H.J. ; Kim, K.Y.
Author_Institution :
Sch. of Mater. Sci. & Eng., Seoul Nat. Univ., South Korea
fDate :
9/1/2002 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
A key requirement for spin valves (SV) with nano-oxide layers (NOL) are the formation of the smooth and uniform interface between NOL and magnetic layer for specular electron scattering. We investigated the natural oxidation conditions using mixed gases (O2/N2 and O2/Ar) for the uniform NOL formation in specular SVs. We have compared the magnetoresistance (MR) properties and thermal stability of SVs with NOL formed in mixed gases with those formed using pure O2. We can optimize oxidation conditions using mixed gases for enhanced MR ratio and reduced interlayer coupling field.
Keywords :
annealing; exchange interactions (electron); giant magnetoresistance; magnetic multilayers; oxidation; spin valves; surface scattering; thermal stability; annealing temperature; improved GMR characteristics; mixed gases; nano-oxide layer formation; natural oxidation conditions; partial pressure ratio; pinned layer; reduced interlayer coupling field; smooth uniform interface; specular electron scattering; specular spin valves; thermal stability; Argon; Electrons; Enhanced magnetoresistance; Gases; Giant magnetoresistance; Magnetic properties; Oxidation; Scattering; Spin valves; Thermal stability;
Journal_Title :
Magnetics, IEEE Transactions on
DOI :
10.1109/TMAG.2002.803154
