Depth-dependent magnetism in epitaxial MnSb thin films: effects of surface passivation and cleaning

J Phys Condens Matter. 2012 Apr 11;24(14):146002. doi: 10.1088/0953-8984/24/14/146002. Epub 2012 Mar 15.

Abstract

Depth-dependent magnetism in MnSb(0001) epitaxial films has been studied by combining experimental methods with different surface specificities: polarized neutron reflectivity, x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD), x-ray resonant magnetic scattering and spin-polarized low energy electron microscopy (SPLEEM). A native oxide ∼4.5 nm thick covers air-exposed samples which increases the film's coercivity. HCl etching efficiently removes this oxide and in situ surface treatment of etched samples enables surface magnetic contrast to be observed in SPLEEM. A thin Sb capping layer prevents oxidation and preserves ferromagnetism throughout the MnSb film. The interpretation of Mn L(3,2) edge XMCD data is discussed.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Circular Dichroism
  • Magnetics*
  • Manganese Compounds / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Surface Properties
  • Temperature
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Manganese Compounds