arXiv · 1902.07541
Magnetic proximity effect in [Nb/Gd] superlattices seen by neutron scattering
Abstract
We have used spin-polarized neutron reflectometry to investigate the magnetization profile of superlattices composed of ferromagnetic Gd and superconducting Nb layers. We have observed a partial suppression of ferromagnetic (F) order of Gd layers in [Gd($d_F$)/Nb(25nm)]$_{12}$ superlattices below the superconducting (S) transition of the Nb layers. The amplitude of the suppression decreases with increasing $d_F$. By analyzing the neutron spin asymmetry we conclude that the observed effect has an electromagnetic origin - the proximity-coupled S layers screen out the external magnetic field and thus suppress the F response of the Gd layers inside the structure. Our investigation demonstrates the considerable influence of electromagnetic effects on the magnetic properties of S/F systems.
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Yu. N. Khaydukov, E. A. Kravtsov, V. D. Zhaketov, V. V. Progliado, G. Kim, Yu. V. Nikitenko, T. Keller, V. V. Ustinov, V. L. Aksenov, B. Keimer. 2019-02-20. Magnetic proximity effect in [Nb/Gd] superlattices seen by neutron scattering. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevb.99.140503
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