Efficient domain wall propagation across magnetic nanopatches

Abstract

Magnetic domain walls are integral to logic, memory, and sensing technologies based on magnetic nanowires, including envisioned three-dimensional structures. We fabricate an interconnection of thin-film nanowires made of different materials with nanometer patching accuracy. Through micromagnetic simulations, we identify the critical parameters for achieving domain wall propagation across patched nanowires. The wire-to-wire domain wall propagation is analyzed by operando magneto-optical microscopy combined with simultaneous giant magnetoresistive characterization. Reliable propagation of magnetic domain walls in and across connected ferromagnetic nanowires in a rotating magnetic field is achieved. This is an essential step to the performance, reliability, and functionality of three-dimensional magnetic domain wall-based sensor devices. Our findings enable new strategies for designing nanoscale devices and further push the limits of miniaturization.