X-RAY DICHROISM OF DY OVERLAYERS ON NI(110)

Angle dependent X-ray absorption measurements of Dy on Ni(110) are presented, showing large dichroism effects. These effects were clearly observable, even in very thin layers (0.25 ML) and at room temperature, and indicate the potential of X-ray dichroism for studies of the magneto-crystalline field anisotropy at the surface. In contrast to measurements of spin polarization, MXD probes the total moment of the ions, including the orbital moment. The interpretation of the results in terms of a magnetized free-ion model is discussed.