Spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance (ST-FMR) has been widely used for measuring damping-like spin–orbit torques in magnetic bilayers. Typically, the ratio between the damping-like and field-like spin–orbit torques are extrapolated based on the ferromagnetic resonance line shapes. However, when the field-like spin–orbit torque is unknown, the line shape analysis may lead to errors in extrapolating the damping-like spin–orbit torque. Here, we propose a modified version of the ST-FMR that allows extrapolation of both damping-like and field-like torques independently. By introducing an alternating current to the sample, the RF impedance is modulated, allowing detection via the reflected microwave. We show that the extrapolated field-like and damping-like torques in Py/Pt samples are consistent with the technique measuring current-induced linewidth and resonance field change but have much better signal-to-noise ratio. Our proposed method paves a way for more accurate measurement of spin–orbit torques.
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Unidirectional response in spin-torque driven magnetization dynamics
It was recently demonstrated in bilayers of permalloy and platinum, that by combining spin torques arising from the spin Hall effect with Oersted field-like torques, magnetization dynamics can be induced with a directional preference.1 This “unidirectional” magnetization dynamic effect is made possible by exploiting the different even and odd symmetry that damping-like and field-like torques respectively have when magnetization is reversed. The experimental method used to demonstrate this effect was the spin-torque ferromagnetic (ST-FMR) resonance technique; a popular tool used in the phenomenological quantification of a myriad of damping-like and field-like torques. In this report, we review the phenomenology which is used to describe and analyze the unidirectional magnetization dynamic effect in ST-FMR measurements. We will focus on how the asymmetry in the dynamics also is present in the phase angle of the magnetization precession. We conclude by demonstrating a utility of this directional effect; we will outline an improved experimental method that can be used to distinguish a phase-shifted field-like torque in a ST-FMR experiment from a combination of field-like and damping-like torques.
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- Award ID(s):
- 1720633
- PAR ID:
- 10092657
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Proceedings of SPIE
- Volume:
- 10732
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 37
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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