Controlled reversal of Co/Pt Dots for nanomagnetic logic applications

Domain reversal in perpendicular multilayer films is governed by an intrinsic distribution of anisotropy. However, control of the switching field distribution (SFD) of field-coupled, single domain Co/Pt dots is the key to building large integrated systems for nanomagnetic logic applications. In this work, partial Ga+ focused ion beam (FIB) irradiation of single-domain Co/Pt dots is employed which locally reduces the anisotropy and renders the film-inherent SFD ineffective. Controlled reduction in the switching field compared to non-irradiated dots is achieved, depending on size and dose of irradiation. TEM images of an as-grown and irradiated Co/Pt stack show a change in morphology from distinct Co/Pt interfaces to intermixed and randomly oriented grains due to the Ga+ ion impact. The presented method is highly suitable to control the switching behavior in field-coupled logic devices. Experimental results are used to demonstrate a nanomagnetic fanout operation. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [doi: 10.1063/1.3675171]