Atomic-scale visualization of topological spin textures in the chiral magnet MnGe

Science. 2021 Dec 17;374(6574):1484-1487. doi: 10.1126/science.abd9225. Epub 2021 Dec 16.

Abstract

Topological spin textures in chiral magnets such as manganese germanide (MnGe) are of fundamental interest and may enable magnetic storage and computing technologies. Our spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy images of MnGe thin films reveal a variety of textures that are correlated to the atomic-scale structure. Our images indicate helical stripe domains, in contrast to bulk, and associated helimagnetic domain walls. In combination with micromagnetic modeling, we can deduce the three-dimensional (3D) orientation of the helical wave vectors, and we find that three helical domains can meet in two distinct ways to produce either a “target-like” or a “π-like” topological spin texture. The target-like texture can be reversibly manipulated through either current/voltage pulsing or applied magnetic field, which represents a promising step toward future applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't