Structure and magnetoresistive properties of three-layer thin films of spin-valve type

Three-layer thin films of spin-valve type Co/Сu/Ni_xFe_100-x at x = 20–80 at.% were prepared by electron-beam sputter deposition. The investigated phase state and magnetoresistive properties were done for as-deposited and annealed to 400, 550, and 700 K films. The measurements of field dependences of magnetoresistance were held at different temperatures. It was demonstrated that phase state, crystal structure, and magnetoresistive properties of Co/Сu/Ni_xFe_100-x systems strongly dependent on both Ni_xFe_100-x composition Ni_xFe_100-x and heat treatment conditions.