Tunable Magnetic Properties and Thermal Stability of Co/Pt Superlattice Films for High-Performance Spintronic Devices

In this study, we explore the magnetic and structural properties of ultrathin Co/Pt superlattice films, emphasizing their potential for MgO-based perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions (p-MTJs). These superlattice films, consisting of monatomic layers of Cobalt and Platinum in a [Co/Pt]*4 configuration, demonstrate significant perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and thermal stability, essential for spintronic applications. The multilayer structure is Ru / [Co/ Pt]*4 / MgO / Ru . These films will be deposited on three different substrates: SiO2, Al2O3 and MoS2 exfoliation. And then, the films will undergo rapid thermal annealing (RTA).
The magnetic properties of these films will be characterized by using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) to evaluate parameters such as coercivity, saturation magnetization, and hysteresis behavior. Additionally, magnetic force microscopy (MFM) will be employed to investigate the micromagnetic structures, providing detailed imaging of domain configurations. By manipulating the Co and Pt bilayer thicknesses, we observe a controlled variation in micromagnetic structures, notably the formation and density modulations.
These findings indicate that Co/Pt superlattices, with their precise tunability and robust performance under thermal stress, are promising candidates for future high-performance memory devices. The annealing process is expected to enhance the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, contributing to the stability and efficiency of the MTJs. This study aims to demonstrate that such superlattice films can maintain their superior properties across various substrates, thereby broadening the applicability of this technology in different device architectures. Furthermore, the integration of 2D and 3D magnet superlattice structures offers the potential to create novel magnetic materials with unique properties, paving the way for innovative spintronic applications.