Lateral- and layer-resolved magnetization reversals in a spin-valve array

Using element-sensitive x-ray resonant magnetic scattering, layer-resolved magnetic hysteresis loops were measured on a periodic square frame nanostrucutre. Taking advantage of the lateral periodicity, we measured hysteresis loops at several x-ray diffraction orders to extract hysteresis loops from different regions of the square frame structures. The layer- and spatially resolved magnetic measurements revealed distinct magnetic reversal mechanisms in different regions due to interplay between the shape anisotropy and interlayer dipolar coupling. The assumed vortex state during the reversal in our analysis was confirmed by photoemission electron microscopy imaging. (c) 2008 American Institute of Physics.