arXiv subjects

Grégory Malinowski

Publications and source records attributed to Grégory Malinowski.

7 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Single-shot laser-pulse-induced magnetization reversal in CoFeB/MgO-based magnetic tunnel junctions

We demonstrate single-shot laser-pulse-induced magnetization reversal in rare-earth-free CoFeB/MgO magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs), a material system widely adopted in spin-transfer torque magnetic random-access memory (STT-MRAM). By tuning the Ru capping layer thickness, we modify the laser energy absorption profile and observe magnetization reversal from the parallel (P) to antiparallel (AP) state, with switching observed for $t_\text{Ru} \geq 2.0\,$ nm. Furthermore, we detect magnetization reversal in a micro-scale MTJ device via the tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) effect. Our findings suggest that ultrafast spin transport, dipolar interactions, or a combination of both may contribute to the switching process, although the precise mechanism remains to be clarified. This work represents a significant step toward integrating ultrafast optical control with MTJ technology.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2025

Exploring Co, Fe, and Ni Reference Layers for Single-Pulse All-Optical Reversal in Ferromagnetic Spin Valves

We investigate the magnetization reversal process induced by a single femtosecond laser pulse in ferromagnetic spin valves by systematically comparing reference layers composed of pure Co, Ni, and Fe. To circumvent the loss of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy associated with changes in reference layer material and thickness, we design spin valves with in plane magnetizations. While antiparallel to parallel switching is observed for all three elements, parallel to antiparallel switching occurs only with a Co reference layer and is absent with Ni and Fe. This difference is attributed to the distinct ultrafast magnetization dynamics of the reference materials. Our results support the hypothesis that parallel to antiparallel switching requires a rapid remagnetization of the reference layer, which generates a substantial negative spin current polarized opposite to the free layer magnetization an essential condition for triggering its reversal.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2025

Single-Shot Magnetization Reversal in Ferromagnetic Spin Valves Enabled via Heat Control

We study laser induced ultrafast magnetization reversal in a ferromagnetic spin valve by comparing the effects of direct laser excitation and ultrashort hot electron pulses. A wedged Cu layer is deposited atop the spin valve to tune energy transmission to the magnetic stack for both optical and hot-electron excitation. We demonstrate single shot magnetization reversal of the free layer using hot electron pulses. Moreover, such reversal is achieved even with picosecond laser pulses. The influence of laser fluence, Cu thickness ($t_{\mathrm{Cu}}$), and pulse duration is investigated in detail. Our results indicate that the key factor enabling magnetization reversal is full demagnetization of the free layer, driven by a rapid rise in its electronic temperature achieved via either direct laser or hot electron excitation. This work advances the understanding of ultrafast magnetization reversal via nonlocal heat and spin transport under strongly out of equilibrium conditions.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

All-optical helicity-dependent switching in NiCo$_2$O$_4$ thin films

All-optical switching (AOS) involves manipulating magnetization using only pulsed laser, presenting a promising approach for next-generation magnetic recording devices. NiCo2O4 (NCO) thin films, a rare-earth-free ferrimagnetic oxide, exhibit a high Curie temperature and strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. This study demonstrates AOS in NCO thin films at room temperature using long-duration laser pulses and high repetition rates. Unlike previous findings, the AOS phenomena we report here are helicity-dependent and observable with an ultrashort pulsed laser. Consequently, two distinct types of AOS can be observed in a single NCO thin film, contingent on the characteristics of the laser pulses and temperature.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

Light-induced torque in ferromagnetic metals via orbital angular momentum generated by photon-helicity

We investigated photon-helicity-induced magnetization precession in Co$_{1-x}$Pt$_{x}$ alloy thin films. In addition to field-like torque, attributable to magnetic field generation owing to {\it the inverse Faraday effect}, we observed non-trivial and large damping-like torque which has never been discussed for single ferromagnetic layer. The composition dependence of those two torques is effectively elucidated by a model that considers mutual coupling via spin-orbit interaction between magnetization and the electronic orbital angular momentum generated by photon-helicity. This work significantly enhances our understanding of the physics relevant to the interplay of photon-helicity and magnetization in magnetic metals.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2023

Ultrafast single-pulse all-optical switching in synthetic ferrimagnetic Tb/Co/Gd multilayers

In this work, we investigate single-shot all-optical switching (AOS) in Tb/Co/Gd/Co/Tb multilayers in an attempt to establish AOS in synthetic ferrimagnets with high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. In particular, we study the effect of varying Tb thicknesses to disentangle the role of the two rare earth elements. Even though the role of magnetic compensation has been considered to be crucial, we find that the threshold fluence for switching is largely independent of the Tb content. Moreover, we identify the timescale for the magnetization to cross zero to be within the first ps after laser excitation using time-resolved MOKE. We conclude that the switching is governed mostly by interactions between Co and Gd.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2020

Laser induced ultrafast 3d and 4f spin dynamics in CoDy ferrimagnetic alloys as a function of temperature

We report on an element- and time-resolved investigation of femtosecond laser induced ultrafast dynamics of 3d and 4f spins in a ferrimagnetic Co80Dy20 alloy as a function of temperature. We observe an increase of the Co3d characteristic demagnetization time and a decrease of the Dy4f demagnetization time when the temperature is approaching the Curie temperature. It suggests that the critical slowing down regime, which affects the laser induced ultrafast dynamics in pure 3d transition metals and 4f rare-earth ferromagnetic layers, vanishes for the Dy sublattice in the CoDy alloy, in line with the theoretical predictions of the Landau-Lifshitz-Bloch model.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗