Uncompensated moments in the MnPd/Fe exchange bias system

Phys Rev Lett. 2008 Sep 19;101(12):126402. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.126402. Epub 2008 Sep 16.

Abstract

The element-specific magnetic structure of an epitaxially grown Mn_52Pd_48/Fe bilayer showing exchange bias was investigated with atomic-layer depth sensitivity at the antiferromagnet/ferromagnet interface by soft-x-ray magnetic circular dichroism and magnetic reflectivity. A complex magnetic interfacial configuration, consisting of a 2-monolayer-thick induced ferromagnetic region, and pinned uncompensated Mn moments that reach far deeper (approximately 13 A), both in the antiferromagnet, were found. For the latter, a direct relationship with the magnitude of the exchange bias is verified by similar measurements perpendicular to the field cooling direction.