Spin-polarised currents and magnetic domain walls

Electrical currents flowing in ferromagnetic materials are spin-polarised as a result of the spin-dependent band structure. When the spatial direction of the polarisation changes, in a domain structure, the electrons must somehow accommodate the necessary change in direction of their spin angular momentum as they pass through the wall. Reflection, scattering, or a transfer of angular momentum onto the lattice are all possible outcomes, depending on the circumstances. This gives rise to a variety of different physical effects, most importantly a contribution to the electrical resistance caused by the wall, and a motion of the wall driven by the spin-polarised current.

Historical and recent research on these topics is reviewed.

Spin-polarised currents and magnetic domain walls

All authors

C. H. Marrows

https://doi.org/10.1080/00018730500442209

Published online:

19 February 2007

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