Magnetic domain structures and magnetotransport properties in Co-Ag granular thin films

The magnetic microstructures and magnetotransport properties in granular Co_xAg_1-x films with 17%≤x≤62% were studied. Magnetic force microscopy (MFM) observations showed the presence of magnetic stripe domains in as-deposited samples with x≥45% and the evolution of the magnetic domain patterns to in-plane domains with annealing. A perpendicular magnetic anisotropy as high as about 8×10⁵ ergs/cc for as-deposited Co₆₂Ag₃₈ and about 6×10⁵ ergs/cc for as-deposited Co₄₅Ag₅₅ was observed by magnetization and torque measurements. With increasing annealing temperature, the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy became negative. The origin of the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy may be attributed to a rhombohedral distortion of the cubic cell due to residual substrate-film stresses. The magnetic stripe domains are the consequence of the interplay of the indirect or direct exchange, perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and dipolar interactions. Finally, magnetoresistance (MR) curves displayed training behaviours and different shapes when measured with different configurations (parallel, transverse and perpendicular). It is proposed that the existence and the evolution of the magnetic domain structures strongly affect the magnetotransport properties due to the extra contribution of the electron scattering at the domain walls. Furthermore, an anisotropic MR also contributes to the overall MR curves. Received: 2 March 2000 / Accepted: 28 March 2000 / Published online: 23 May 2001