Showing 1–50 of 66 results for author: Sala, G

Laser-written reconfigurable energy landscapes and programmable Moiré spin textures

Authors: Matteo Panzeri, Piero Florio, Davide Girardi, Joseba Urrestarazu, Giacomo Sala, Nicola Pellizzi, Matteo Vitali, Marco Madami, Luca Ciaccarini Mavilla, Silvia Tacchi, Elisa Riedo, Andrea Meo, Vito Puliafito, Mario Carpentieri, Riccardo Tomasello, Efe Ersoy, Kai Wagner, Patrick Maletinsky, Olivier Boulle, Edoardo Albisetti, Daniela Petti

Abstract: Magnetic textures are central to emerging spintronic and unconventional computing technologies due to their rich dynamics, topological properties and nanoscale dimensions. A major challenge remains achieving tunable, reversible, and spatially resolved control over these textures and their evolution as a function of external stimuli, by spatially reprogramming the magnetic energy landscape that gov… ▽ More Magnetic textures are central to emerging spintronic and unconventional computing technologies due to their rich dynamics, topological properties and nanoscale dimensions. A major challenge remains achieving tunable, reversible, and spatially resolved control over these textures and their evolution as a function of external stimuli, by spatially reprogramming the magnetic energy landscape that governs their nucleation and stability. Here, we exploit a focused laser-assisted local field cooling technique that establishes a fast, non-contact and scalable platform for grayscale spin texture engineering. By non-destructively controlling the exchange-bias anisotropy with nanoscale resolution in thin-film heterostructures, this approach enables grayscale, reprogrammable control of the local energy profile, which we use to create magnetic patterns with highly controlled hysteresis, field-dependent readability and tunable switching thresholds. Leveraging this capability, we demonstrate information encoding with magnetic field-gated readability, and artificial spin metamaterials, stabilizing spin lattices with field-reconfigurable symmetries and creating artificial Moiré spin textures via the geometric superposition of twisted magnetic potentials. These results establish a versatile, reprogrammable platform that bridges the gap between application-oriented magnetic memory and fundamental studies of emergent order in artificial lattices. △ Less

Submitted 17 April, 2026; originally announced April 2026.

Comments: 20 pages, 5 figures and supplementary

Magnetic order and excitations in Ce$_3$TiBi$_5$ and Ce$_3$ZrBi$_5$

Authors: Pyeongjae Park, Qianli Ma, Wei Tian, Stuart Calder, Matthias Frontzek, G. Sala, D. Mandrus, Shirin Mozaffari, Andrew D. Christianson, Matthew B. Stone

Abstract: The R3MBi5 rare-earth intermetallics (R = rare earth, M = Ti, Zr, Sc) provide a versatile platform to explore how Kondo hybridization, RKKY exchange, magnetic frustration, and broken inversion symmetry may cooperate to generate unusual magnetic behavior. We present a comprehensive neutron scattering investigation of the magnetic structure, crystal electric field (CEF), and low-energy excitations i… ▽ More The R3MBi5 rare-earth intermetallics (R = rare earth, M = Ti, Zr, Sc) provide a versatile platform to explore how Kondo hybridization, RKKY exchange, magnetic frustration, and broken inversion symmetry may cooperate to generate unusual magnetic behavior. We present a comprehensive neutron scattering investigation of the magnetic structure, crystal electric field (CEF), and low-energy excitations in the locally noncentrosymmetric Kondo-lattice compounds Ce3TiBi5 and Ce3ZrBi5. Powder and single-crystal neutron diffraction reveals incommensurate cycloidal antiferromagnetic order in Ce3TiBi5 with propagation vector k = (0, 0, 0.388) and a reduced ordered moment of m = 0.53(3)$μ_{B}$. Ce3ZrBi5 exhibits a qualitatively similar magnetic diffraction profile, with k $\simeq$ (0, 0, 0.37). Inelastic neutron scattering measurements resolve two clear, well-separated CEF excitations in both compounds with nearly the same profile, confirming a well-isolated Kramers doublet ground state. At low energies, a broad, quasi-elastic magnetic response is observed at T $\simeq$ TN, whose momentum-dependence is inconsistent with that expected from conventional collective excitations of localized moments. This discrepancy, along with a Kondo temperature estimate TK ~ 3--5 K -- comparable to TN -- indicates sizable Kondo hybridization, which accounts for the moment reduction and the spiral magnetic order that appears to involve the magnetic hard direction. Our results place these compounds in a regime where local inversion symmetry breaking, anisotropic CEF effects, and competing Kondo and RKKY interactions collectively give rise to unconventional magnetic order. △ Less

Submitted 26 February, 2026; originally announced February 2026.

Comments: 15 pages, 15 figures

Influence of controlled disorder on the dipolar spin ice state of Ho-based pyrochlores

Authors: A. A. Aczel, B. R. Ortiz, Y. Luo, G. Pokharel, P. M. Sarte, C. dela Cruz, J. Liu, G. Sala, S. D. Wilson, B. A. Frandsen, J. A. M. Paddison

Abstract: Pyrochlore magnets of the form $R_2B_2$O$_7$, in which rare-earth ions on the $R$-site form a three-dimensional network of corner-sharing tetrahedra, provide a canonical setting for geometrical frustration. Ho-based pyrochlores host a dipolar spin-ice ground state, characterized by Ising moments constrained by the ice rules and elementary excitations analogous to magnetic monopoles. Here we examin… ▽ More Pyrochlore magnets of the form $R_2B_2$O$_7$, in which rare-earth ions on the $R$-site form a three-dimensional network of corner-sharing tetrahedra, provide a canonical setting for geometrical frustration. Ho-based pyrochlores host a dipolar spin-ice ground state, characterized by Ising moments constrained by the ice rules and elementary excitations analogous to magnetic monopoles. Here we examine how controlled chemical disorder influences this state by introducing site mixing on the non-magnetic $B$-site in two compounds. Ho$_2$GaSbO$_7$ contains only Ga$^{3+}$/Sb$^{5+}$ charge disorder, whereas Ho$_2$ScSbO$_7$ exhibits both charge and substantial size disorder arising from the large ionic-radius mismatch between Sc$^{3+}$ and Sb$^{5+}$. Although both materials retain the pyrochlore structure, neutron scattering measurements reveal a reduced correlation length for the $R/B$-site cation ordering and enhanced local structural distortions in Ho$_2$ScSbO$_7$. Despite these structural differences, bulk thermodynamic measurements and magnetic diffuse scattering demonstrate that both systems exhibit the defining signatures of a dipolar spin-ice state. Low-energy inelastic neutron spectroscopy further uncovers broad magnetic excitations that develop within the dipolar spin-ice regime, a feature absent in pristine Ho pyrochlores and indicative of disorder-induced splitting of the non-Kramers ground-state doublet. Together, these results show that controlled disorder generates tunable transverse-field-driven quantum fluctuations in Ho-based pyrochlores, although the dipolar spin-ice state is remarkably robust to this disorder. △ Less

Submitted 15 April, 2026; v1 submitted 5 January, 2026; originally announced January 2026.

Comments: 15 pages, 6 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 113, 214415 (2026)

Skyrmion and Meron Crystals in Intermetallic Gd$_3$Ru$_4$Al$_{12}$: Microscopic Model Insights into Chiral Phases

Authors: Jiajun Mo, Leandro M. Chinellato, Fletcher Williams, Akiko Kikkawa, Joseph A. M. Paddison, Matthias D. Frontzek, Gabriele Sala, Chris Pasco, Kipton Barros, Taro Nakajima, Taka-hisa Arima, Yasujiro Taguchi, Yoshinori Tokura, Matthew B. Stone, Andrew D. Christianson, Cristian D. Batista, Shang Gao

Abstract: Topological spin textures in frustrated intermetallics hold great promise for spintronics applications. However, understanding their origin and properties remains a significant challenge due to competing and often long-range interactions mediated by conduction electrons. Here, by combining neutron scattering experiments with theoretical modeling via unprecedented multi-target fits that further inc… ▽ More Topological spin textures in frustrated intermetallics hold great promise for spintronics applications. However, understanding their origin and properties remains a significant challenge due to competing and often long-range interactions mediated by conduction electrons. Here, by combining neutron scattering experiments with theoretical modeling via unprecedented multi-target fits that further incorporate the ferromagnentic resonance data and magnetization curve, we construct a realistic microscopic model for the prototypical intermetallic skyrmion host \text{Gd}$_3$\text{Ru}$_4$\text{Al}$_{12}$. Beyond magnetic frustration, we identify the competition between dipolar interactions and easy-plane single-ion anisotropy as a key ingredient for stabilizing the rich chiral magnetic phases observed in this compound -- including a hexagonal skyrmion crystal and two distinct meron crystals. Remarkably, the meron crystal in lower field is revealed to be commensurate with the underlying lattice, and its unique three-meron-one-antimeron spin texture is verified by the polarized x-ray diffraction data. At elevated temperatures, the short-range spin correlations in \text{Gd}$_3$\text{Ru}$_4$\text{Al}$_{12}$ are well described by a codimension-two spiral spin-liquid. Perturbations from staggered Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions give rise to chiral fluctuations that account for the temperature and field dependence of the anomalous Hall response. Our results highlight the unique power of neutron scattering, especially when combined with complementary experimental techniques, to unravel complex magnetic phase transitions and provide new insights into the rich variety of topological spin textures in frustrated systems. △ Less

Submitted 30 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

Comments: 28 pages, 24 figures

Probing the quantum metric of 3D topological insulators

Authors: Giacomo Sala, Emanuele Longo, Maria Teresa Mercaldo, Stefano Gariglio, Mario Cuoco, Roberto Mantovan, Carmine Ortix, Andrea D. Caviglia

Abstract: The surface states of 3D topological insulators possess geometric structures that imprint distinctive signatures on electronic transport. A prime example is the Berry curvature, which controls, for instance, electric frequency doubling via its higher order moments. In addition to the Berry curvature, topological surface states are expected to exhibit a nontrivial quantum metric, which plays a key… ▽ More The surface states of 3D topological insulators possess geometric structures that imprint distinctive signatures on electronic transport. A prime example is the Berry curvature, which controls, for instance, electric frequency doubling via its higher order moments. In addition to the Berry curvature, topological surface states are expected to exhibit a nontrivial quantum metric, which plays a key role in governing nonlinear magnetotransport. However, its manifestation has yet to be experimentally observed and controlled in 3D topological insulators. Here, we provide evidence for a nonlinear response activated by the quantum metric of the topological surface states of Sb$_2$Te$_3$. We measure a time-reversal odd, nonlinear magnetoresistance that is independent from the temperature and the scattering time below 30 K, and is thus of intrinsic geometrical origin. This quantum metric magnetoresistance can be controlled by tuning the contributions of the top and bottom topological surface states by voltage gating. Our measurements thus demonstrate the existence and tunability of quantum geometry-induced transport in topological phases of matter and provide strategies for designing novel functionalities in topological devices. △ Less

Submitted 20 January, 2026; v1 submitted 21 September, 2025; originally announced September 2025.

Comments: Revised manuscript

Intrinsic disorder in the candidate quantum spin ice Pr$_2$Zr$_2$O$_7$

Authors: T. J. Hicken, P. Meadows, D. Prabhakaran, A. Szabó, S. E. Dutton, C. Castelnovo, K. Moovendaran, T. S. Northam de la Fuente, L. Mangin-Thro, G. B. G. Stenning, M. J. Gutmann, G. Sala, M. B. Stone, P. F. Henry, D. J. Voneshen, J. P. Goff

Abstract: Quantum spin liquids with long-range entanglement are of great interest for applications in quantum technology. The quantum spin ice Pr$_2$Zr$_2$O$_7$ is a promising example, where it is believed that structural disorder plays a key role in enhancing quantum mechanical effects by introducing strains that split the ground state doublet akin to the effect of a local disordered transverse field. Howe… ▽ More Quantum spin liquids with long-range entanglement are of great interest for applications in quantum technology. The quantum spin ice Pr$_2$Zr$_2$O$_7$ is a promising example, where it is believed that structural disorder plays a key role in enhancing quantum mechanical effects by introducing strains that split the ground state doublet akin to the effect of a local disordered transverse field. However, the precise defect structure responsible for this behaviour is unknown. Here we have determined the intrinsic defect structure of Pr$_2$Zr$_2$O$_7$ using neutron and x-ray scattering techniques supported by density functional theory. We find the main defect is the stuffing of Zr$^{4+}$ sites by Pr$^{3+}$ ions, accompanied by charge compensating O$^{2-}$ vacancies, and the relaxation of a neighbouring O$^{2-}$ ion to an interstitial site. Our results explain the single-ion magnetism by considering the non-magnetic singlets that arise on neighbouring sites as a result of the defect structure. These singlets account for additional features in the crystal electric field excitations. The effects caused by this low level of structural disorder are magnified since several neighbouring Pr sites are affected. This makes a significant contribution towards the observed broadening of pinch points in the magnetic diffuse scattering, which was previously attributed purely to quantum effects. △ Less

Submitted 12 September, 2025; originally announced September 2025.

Comments: 9 pages, 3 figures

Observation of relativistic domain wall motion in amorphous ferrimagnets

Authors: Pietro Diona, Luca Maranzana, Sergey Artyukhin, Giacomo Sala

Abstract: Domain walls in ferrimagnets and antiferromagnets behave as relativistic sine-Gordon solitons with the spin-wave group velocity setting the ultimate velocity of domain walls and speed of magnetic devices. While this relativistic regime has been achieved in crystalline ferrimagnets, they cannot be routinely integrated in devices. To enable technological breakthroughs, relativistic dynamics must be… ▽ More Domain walls in ferrimagnets and antiferromagnets behave as relativistic sine-Gordon solitons with the spin-wave group velocity setting the ultimate velocity of domain walls and speed of magnetic devices. While this relativistic regime has been achieved in crystalline ferrimagnets, they cannot be routinely integrated in devices. To enable technological breakthroughs, relativistic dynamics must be demonstrated in easy-to-integrate ferrimagnets such as rare-earth -- transition-metal alloys. However, this scenario remains elusive due to the inherent magnetic disorder of these materials, complex spin-wave spectra, and challenges in modeling their ultrafast dynamics. Here, we demonstrate relativistic domain wall motion in amorphous ferrimagnetic GdFeCo devices operated in the proximity of the angular momentum compensation point. The current-induced domain wall velocity saturates within 10% of the spin-wave speed of 2 km/s, a behavior consistent with relativistic model of domain wall motion. Our observation of relativistic dynamics in technologically relevant ferrimagnets opens the way to magnetic devices operating at the ultimate speed limit. △ Less

Submitted 22 October, 2025; v1 submitted 19 August, 2025; originally announced August 2025.

Novel bipartite entanglement in the quantum dimer magnet Yb$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$

Authors: A. Brassington, Q. Ma, G. Duan, S. Calder, A. I. Kolesnikov, K. M. Taddei, G. Sala, E. S. Choi, H. Wang, W. Xie, B. A. Frandsen, N. Li, X. F. Sun, C. Liu, R. Yu, H. D. Zhou, A. A. Aczel

Abstract: The quantum dimer magnet, with antiferromagnetic intradimer and interdimer Heisenberg exchange between spin-1/2 moments, is known to host an up/down - down/up singlet ground state when the intradimer exchange is dominant. Rare-earth-based quantum dimer systems with strong spin-orbit coupling offer the opportunity for tuning their magnetic properties by using magnetic anisotropy as a control knob.… ▽ More The quantum dimer magnet, with antiferromagnetic intradimer and interdimer Heisenberg exchange between spin-1/2 moments, is known to host an up/down - down/up singlet ground state when the intradimer exchange is dominant. Rare-earth-based quantum dimer systems with strong spin-orbit coupling offer the opportunity for tuning their magnetic properties by using magnetic anisotropy as a control knob. Here, we present bulk characterization and neutron scattering measurements of the quantum dimer magnet Yb$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$. We find that the Yb$^{3+}$ ions can be described by an effective spin-1/2 model at low temperatures and the system does not show signs of magnetic order down to 50 mK. The magnetization, heat capacity, and neutron spectroscopy data can be well-described by an isolated dimer model with highly anisotropic exchange that stabilizes a singlet ground state with a wavefunction up/up - down/down or up/up + down/down. Our results show that strong spin-orbit coupling can induce novel entangled states of matter in quantum dimer magnets. △ Less

Submitted 8 September, 2025; v1 submitted 1 May, 2025; originally announced May 2025.

Comments: 11 pages, 4 figures, and SM

Crystal field splittings and magnetic ground state of the square-lattice antiferromagnets YbBi2ClO4 and YbBi2IO4 with Jeff = 1/2

Authors: Pyeongjae Park, Qianli Ma, G. Sala, S. Calder, Douglas L. Abernathy, Matthew B. Stone, Andrew F. May, Andrew D. Christianson

Abstract: We report on the crystal field level splitting and magnetic ground state of the Jeff = 1/2 square lattice antiferromagnets YbBi2ClO4 and YbBi2IO4 using powder inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and neutron diffraction measurements. Both compounds exhibit a well-isolated $Γ_{7}$ doublet ground state under a tetragonal crystal field environment, confirming a robust Jeff = 1/2 picture with slight XY-… ▽ More We report on the crystal field level splitting and magnetic ground state of the Jeff = 1/2 square lattice antiferromagnets YbBi2ClO4 and YbBi2IO4 using powder inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and neutron diffraction measurements. Both compounds exhibit a well-isolated $Γ_{7}$ doublet ground state under a tetragonal crystal field environment, confirming a robust Jeff = 1/2 picture with slight XY-type anisotropic character in the g-tensor. Notably, the ground state wave functions closely resemble the $Γ_{7}$ doublet expected in the perfect cubic limit, consistent with the nearly cubic ligand configuration of eight O2- ions surrounding Yb3+. Below TN =0.21 K, YbBi2IO4 exhibits a stripe long-range magnetic order characterized by an ordering wave vector qm = (1/2, 0, 0) or its symmetry-equivalent (0, 1/2, 0), with magnetic moments aligned along qm. The ordered moment is approximately 79 % of the classical prediction, significantly larger than expected from the isotropic J1-J2 model, suggesting the possible involvement of exchange anisotropy in explaining this observation. We show that symmetry-allowed XXZ and bond-dependent anisotropic exchange terms in a square lattice can play a critical role in stabilizing the stripe order and suppressing the moment reduction as observed. These findings establish YbBi2ClO4 and YbBi2IO4 as unique platforms for exploring rich Jeff = 1/2 magnetism from two less investigated perspectives: (i) on a square lattice and (ii) within a (nearly) cubic ligand environment. △ Less

Submitted 24 March, 2025; v1 submitted 12 March, 2025; originally announced March 2025.

Comments: 12 pages, 6 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 111, 104430 (2025)

Imaging orbital Rashba induced charge transport anisotropy

Authors: Eylon Persky, Xi Wang, Giacomo Sala, Thierry C. van Thiel, Edouard Lesne, Alexander Lau, Mario Cuoco, Marc Gabay, Carmine Ortix, Andrea D. Caviglia, Beena Kalisky

Abstract: Identifying orbital textures and their effects on the electronic properties of quantum materials is a critical element in developing orbitronic devices. However, orbital effects are often entangled with the spin degree of freedom, making it difficult to uniquely identify them in charge transport phenomena. Here, we present a combination of scanning superconducting quantum interference device (SQUI… ▽ More Identifying orbital textures and their effects on the electronic properties of quantum materials is a critical element in developing orbitronic devices. However, orbital effects are often entangled with the spin degree of freedom, making it difficult to uniquely identify them in charge transport phenomena. Here, we present a combination of scanning superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) current imaging, global transport measurements, and theoretical analysis, that reveals a direct contribution of orbital textures to the linear charge transport of 2D systems. Specifically, we show that in the LaAlO$_3$/SrTiO$_3$ interface, which lacks both rotation and inversion symmetries, an anisotropic orbital Rashba coupling leads to conductivity anisotropy in zero magnetic field. We experimentally demonstrate this result by locally measuring the conductivity anisotropy, and correlating its appearance to the non-linear Hall effect, showing that the two phenomena have a common origin. Our results lay the foundations for an all--electrical probing of orbital currents in two-dimensional systems. △ Less

Submitted 13 February, 2025; originally announced February 2025.

Comments: 22 pages, 15 figures

Competing Ordinary and Hanle Magnetoresistance in Pt and Ti Thin Films

Authors: Sebastian Sailler, Giacomo Sala, Denise Reustlen, Richard Schlitz, Min-Gu Kang, Pietro Gambardella, Sebastian T. B. Goennenwein, Michaela Lammel

Abstract: One of the key elements in spintronics research is the spin Hall effect, allowing to generate spin currents from charge currents. A large spin Hall effect is observed in materials with strong spin orbit coupling, e.g., Pt. Recent research suggests the existence of an orbital Hall effect, the orbital analogue to the spin Hall effect, which also arises in weakly spin orbit coupled materials like Ti,… ▽ More One of the key elements in spintronics research is the spin Hall effect, allowing to generate spin currents from charge currents. A large spin Hall effect is observed in materials with strong spin orbit coupling, e.g., Pt. Recent research suggests the existence of an orbital Hall effect, the orbital analogue to the spin Hall effect, which also arises in weakly spin orbit coupled materials like Ti, Mn or Cr. In Pt both effects are predicted to coexist. In any of these materials, a magnetic field perpendicular to the spin or orbital accumulation leads to additional Hanle dephasing and thereby the Hanle magnetoresistance (MR). To reveal the MR behavior of a material with both spin and orbital Hall effect, we thus study the MR of Pt thin films over a wide range of thicknesses. Careful evaluation shows that the MR of our textured samples is dominated by the ordinary MR rather than by the Hanle effect. We analyze the intrinsic properties of Pt films deposited by different groups and show that next to the resistivity also the structural properties of the film influence which MR dominates. We further show that this correlation can be found in both spin Hall active materials like Pt and orbital Hall active materials, like Ti. For both materials, the crystalline samples shows a MR attributed to the ordinary MR, whereas we find a large Hanle MR for the samples without apparent structural order. We then provide a set of rules to distinguish between the ordinary and the Hanle MR. We conclude that in all materials with a spin or orbital Hall effect the Hanle MR and the ordinary MR coexist and the purity and crystallinity of the thin film determine the dominating effect. △ Less

Submitted 26 September, 2024; originally announced September 2024.

The quantum metric of electrons with spin-momentum locking

Authors: Giacomo Sala, Maria Teresa Mercaldo, Klevis Domi, Stefano Gariglio, Mario Cuoco, Carmine Ortix, Andrea D. Caviglia

Abstract: Quantum materials are characterized by electromagnetic responses intrinsically linked to the geometry and topology of electronic wavefunctions, encoded in the quantum metric and Berry curvature. Whereas Berry curvature-mediated transport effects have been identified in several magnetic and nonmagnetic systems, quantum metric-induced transport phenomena remain limited to topological antiferromagnet… ▽ More Quantum materials are characterized by electromagnetic responses intrinsically linked to the geometry and topology of electronic wavefunctions, encoded in the quantum metric and Berry curvature. Whereas Berry curvature-mediated transport effects have been identified in several magnetic and nonmagnetic systems, quantum metric-induced transport phenomena remain limited to topological antiferromagnets. Here we show that spin-momentum locking -- a general characteristic of the electronic states at surfaces and interfaces of spin-orbit coupled materials -- leads to a finite quantum metric. This metric activates a nonlinear in-plane magnetoresistance that we measure and electrically control in 111-oriented LaAlO$_3$/SrTiO$_3$ interfaces. These findings demonstrate the existence of quantum metric effects in a vast class of materials and enable previously unexplored strategies to design functionalities based on quantum geometry. △ Less

Submitted 25 August, 2025; v1 submitted 9 July, 2024; originally announced July 2024.

Comments: Published

Journal ref: Science 389, 822-825, 2025

Detecting slow magnetization relaxation via magnetotransport measurements based on the current-reversal method

Authors: Sebastian Beckert, Richard Schlitz, Gregor Skobjin, Antonin Badura, Miina Leiviskä, Dominik Kriegner, Daniel Scheffler, Giacomo Sala, Kamil Olejník, Lisa Michez, Vincent Baltz, Andy Thomas, Helena Reichlová, Sebastian T. B. Goennenwein

Abstract: Slow magnetization relaxation processes are an important time-dependent property of many magnetic materials. We show that magnetotransport measurements based on a well-established current-reversal method can be utilized to implement a simple and robust screening scheme for such relaxation processes. We demonstrate our approach considering the anomalous Hall effect in a Pt/Co/AlOx trilayer model sy… ▽ More Slow magnetization relaxation processes are an important time-dependent property of many magnetic materials. We show that magnetotransport measurements based on a well-established current-reversal method can be utilized to implement a simple and robust screening scheme for such relaxation processes. We demonstrate our approach considering the anomalous Hall effect in a Pt/Co/AlOx trilayer model system, and then explore relaxation in τ -MnAl films. Compared to magnetotransport experiments based on ac lock-in techniques, we find that the dc current-reversal method is particulary sensitive to relaxation processes with relaxation time scales on the order of seconds, comparable to the current-reversal measurement time scales. △ Less

Submitted 23 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Quantum and classical spin dynamics across temperature scales in the S = 1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet

Authors: Pyeongjae Park, G. Sala, Daniel M. Pajerowski, Andrew F. May, James A. Kolopus, D. Dahlbom, Matthew B. Stone, Gábor B. Halász, Andrew D. Christianson

Abstract: Using the framework of semi-classical Landau-Lifshitz dynamics (LLD), we conduct a systematic investigation of the temperature-dependent spin dynamics in the S = 1/2 Heisenberg square-lattice antiferromagnet (SqAF). By performing inelastic neutron scattering measurements on Zn2VO(PO4)2 (ZVPO) and corresponding finite-temperature spin dynamics simulations based on LLD, we present a comprehensive an… ▽ More Using the framework of semi-classical Landau-Lifshitz dynamics (LLD), we conduct a systematic investigation of the temperature-dependent spin dynamics in the S = 1/2 Heisenberg square-lattice antiferromagnet (SqAF). By performing inelastic neutron scattering measurements on Zn2VO(PO4)2 (ZVPO) and corresponding finite-temperature spin dynamics simulations based on LLD, we present a comprehensive analysis that bridges quantum and classical spin dynamics over a broad temperature range. First, a remarkable agreement between experimental data and LLD simulations is found in the paramagnetic phase of ZVPO, demonstrating the capability of LLD in accurately determining the spin Hamiltonian of S = 1/2 systems and capturing the quantum-to-classical crossover of their spin dynamics. Second, by analyzing the discrepancies between the experimental data and the LLD simulations at lower temperatures, we determine the experimental temperature dependence of the quantum effects in the excitation spectrum of the S = 1/2 SqAF: the quantum renormalization factor for the magnon energies and the quantum continuum above the one-magnon bands. Notably, the emergence of each quantum effect is found to correlate with the formation of three-dimensional long-range order. This work demonstrates the utility of LLD in gaining experimental insights into the temperature-induced modifications of quantum spin dynamics and their convergence towards classical expectations at higher temperatures. This motivates further applications to more challenging quantum antiferromagnets dominated by stronger quantum fluctuations. △ Less

Submitted 19 August, 2024; v1 submitted 14 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Comments: 8 pages, 4 figures, Supplemental Material can be found on the journal's website

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Research 6, 033184 (2024)

Magnetic properties of the quasi-XY Shastry-Sutherland magnet Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$

Authors: A. Brassington, 1 Q. Ma, G. Sala, A. I. Kolesnikov, K. M. Taddei, Y. Wu, E. S Choi, H. Wang, W. Xie, J. Ma, H. D. Zhou, A. A. Aczel

Abstract: Polycrystalline and single crystal samples of the insulating Shastry-Sutherland compound Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$ were synthesized via a solid-state reaction and the floating zone method respectively. The crystal structure, Er single ion anisotropy, zero-field magnetic ground state, and magnetic phase diagrams along high-symmetry crystallographic directions were investigated by bulk measurement techniq… ▽ More Polycrystalline and single crystal samples of the insulating Shastry-Sutherland compound Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$ were synthesized via a solid-state reaction and the floating zone method respectively. The crystal structure, Er single ion anisotropy, zero-field magnetic ground state, and magnetic phase diagrams along high-symmetry crystallographic directions were investigated by bulk measurement techniques, x-ray and neutron diffraction, and neutron spectroscopy. We establish that Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$ crystallizes in a tetragonal space group with planes of orthogonal Er dimers and a strong preference for the Er moments to lie in the local plane perpendicular to each dimer bond. We also find that this system has a non-collinear ordered ground state in zero field with a transition temperature of 0.841 K consisting of antiferromagnetic dimers and in-plane moments. Finally, we mapped out the $H-T$ phase diagrams for Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$ along the directions $H \parallel$ [001], [100], and [110]. While an increasing in-plane field simply induces a phase transition to a field-polarized phase, we identify three metamagnetic transitions before the field-polarized phase is established in the $H \parallel$ [001] case. This complex behavior establishes insulating Er$_2$Be$_2$SiO$_7$ and other isostructural family members as promising candidates for uncovering exotic magnetic properties and phenomena that can be readily compared to theoretical predictions of the exactly soluble Shastry-Sutherland model. △ Less

Submitted 13 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Magnetization fluctuations and magnetic aftereffect probed via the anomalous Hall effect

Authors: Nadine Nabben, Giacomo Sala, Ulrich Nowak, Matthias Krüger, Sebastian T. B. Goennenwein

Abstract: Taking advantage of the anomalous Hall effect, we electrically probe low-frequency magnetization fluctuations at room temperature in a thin ferromagnetic Pt/Co/AlO$_x$ layer stack with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. We observe a strong enhancement of the Hall voltage fluctuations within the hysteretic region of the magnetization loop. Analyzing both the temporal evolution of the anomalous Hall… ▽ More Taking advantage of the anomalous Hall effect, we electrically probe low-frequency magnetization fluctuations at room temperature in a thin ferromagnetic Pt/Co/AlO$_x$ layer stack with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. We observe a strong enhancement of the Hall voltage fluctuations within the hysteretic region of the magnetization loop. Analyzing both the temporal evolution of the anomalous Hall voltage and its frequency-dependent noise power density, we identify two types of magnetic noise: abrupt changes in the magnetic domain configuration, evident as Barkhausen-like steps in the Hall voltage time trace, yield a noise power density spectrum scaling with frequency as $1/f^β$ with $β\approx 1.9$. In contrast, quasi-stationary magnetization configurations are connected with a magnetic noise power density with an exponent $β\approx 0.9$. The observation of Barkausen steps and relaxation effects shows that the magnetic system is in a non-stationary state in the hysteresis region, such that the fluctuation-dissipation theorem cannot be expected to hold. However, the time-dependent change in the Hall voltage for constant magnetic field strength resembles the integrated noise power. △ Less

Submitted 28 February, 2024; originally announced February 2024.

Deterministic and stochastic aspects of current-induced magnetization reversal in perpendicular nanomagnets

Authors: Giacomo Sala, Jan Meyer, Anne Flechsig, Laura Gabriel, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: We study the incubation and transition times that characterize the magnetization switching induced by spin-orbit torques in nanomagnets with perpendicular anisotropy. We present a phenomenological model to interpret the dependence of the incubation time on the amplitude of the voltage pulse and assisting magnetic field and estimate the volume of the seed domain that triggers the switching. Our mea… ▽ More We study the incubation and transition times that characterize the magnetization switching induced by spin-orbit torques in nanomagnets with perpendicular anisotropy. We present a phenomenological model to interpret the dependence of the incubation time on the amplitude of the voltage pulse and assisting magnetic field and estimate the volume of the seed domain that triggers the switching. Our measurements evidence a correlation between the incubation and transition times that is mediated by the temperature variation during the electric pulse. In addition, we discuss the stochastic distributions of the two times in terms of the energy barriers opposing the nucleation and expansion of the seed domain. We propose two models based on the log-normal and gamma functions to account for the different origin of the variability of the incubation and transition times, which are associated with a single nucleation barrier and multiple pinning sites, respectively. △ Less

Submitted 11 January, 2024; originally announced January 2024.

Journal ref: Physical Review B 107, 214447 (2023)

Orbital Hanle Magnetoresistance in a 3d Transition Metal

Authors: Giacomo Sala, Hanchen Wang, William Legrand, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: The Hanle magnetoresistance is a telltale signature of spin precession in nonmagnetic conductors, in which strong spin-orbit coupling generates edge spin accumulation via the spin Hall effect. Here, we report the existence of a large Hanle magnetoresistance in single layers of Mn with weak spin-orbit coupling, which we attribute to the orbital Hall effect. The simultaneous observation of a sizable… ▽ More The Hanle magnetoresistance is a telltale signature of spin precession in nonmagnetic conductors, in which strong spin-orbit coupling generates edge spin accumulation via the spin Hall effect. Here, we report the existence of a large Hanle magnetoresistance in single layers of Mn with weak spin-orbit coupling, which we attribute to the orbital Hall effect. The simultaneous observation of a sizable Hanle magnetoresistance and vanishing small spin Hall magnetoresistance in BiYIG/Mn bilayers corroborates the orbital origin of both effects. We estimate an orbital Hall angle of 0.016, an orbital relaxation time of 2 ps and diffusion length of the order of 2 nm in disordered Mn. Our findings indicate that current-induced orbital moments are responsible for magnetoresistance effects comparable to or even larger than those determined by spin moments, and provide a tool to investigate nonequilibrium orbital transport phenomena. △ Less

Submitted 11 January, 2024; originally announced January 2024.

Journal ref: Physical Review Letters 131, 156703 (2023)

Quantum magnetism in the frustrated square lattice oxyhalides YbBi2IO4 and YbBi2ClO4

Authors: Pyeongjae Park, G. Sala, Th. Proffen, Matthew B. Stone, Andrew D. Christianson, Andrew F. May

Abstract: Square-lattice systems offer a direct route for realizing 2D quantum magnetism with frustration induced by competing interactions. In this work, the square-lattice materials YbBi2IO4 and YbBi2ClO4 were investigated using a combination of magnetization and specific heat measurements on polycrystalline samples. Specific heat measurements provide evidence for long-range magnetic order below TN = 0.21… ▽ More Square-lattice systems offer a direct route for realizing 2D quantum magnetism with frustration induced by competing interactions. In this work, the square-lattice materials YbBi2IO4 and YbBi2ClO4 were investigated using a combination of magnetization and specific heat measurements on polycrystalline samples. Specific heat measurements provide evidence for long-range magnetic order below TN = 0.21 K (0.25 K) for YbBi2IO4 (YbBi2ClO4). On the other hand, a rather broad maximum is found in the temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility, located at Tmax = 0.33 K (0.38 K) in YbBi2IO4 (YbBi2ClO4), consistent with the quasi-2D magnetism expected for the large separation between the magnetic layers. Estimation of the magnetic entropy supports the expected Kramers' doublet ground state for Yb3+ and the observed paramagnetic behavior is consistent with a well-isolated doublet. Roughly two-thirds of the entropy is consumed above TN, due to a combination of the quasi-2D behavior and magnetic frustration. The impact of frustration is examined from the viewpoint of a simplified J1-J2 square lattice model, which is frustrated for antiferromagnetic interactions. Specifically, a high-temperature series expansion analysis of the temperature-dependent specific heat and magnetization data yields J2/J1 = 0.30 (0.23) for YbBi2IO4 (YbBi2ClO4). This simplified analysis suggests strong frustration that should promote significant quantum fluctuations in these compounds, and thus motivates future work on the static and dynamic magnetic properties of these materials. △ Less

Submitted 10 January, 2024; originally announced January 2024.

Comments: 8 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 109, 014426 (2024)

Spin-orbit torques and magnetization switching in Gd/Fe multilayers generated by current injection in NiCu alloys

Authors: Federica Nasr, Federico Binda, Charles-Henri Lambert, Giacomo Sala, Paul Noël, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: Light transition metals have recently emerged as a sustainable material class for efficient spin-charge interconversion. We report measurements of current-induced spin-orbit torques generated by Ni$_{1-x}$Cu$_{x}$ alloys in perpendicularly magnetized ferrimagnetic Gd/Fe multilayers. We show that the spin-orbit torque efficiency of Ni$_{1-x}$Cu$_{x}$ increases with the Ni/Cu atomic ratio, reaching… ▽ More Light transition metals have recently emerged as a sustainable material class for efficient spin-charge interconversion. We report measurements of current-induced spin-orbit torques generated by Ni$_{1-x}$Cu$_{x}$ alloys in perpendicularly magnetized ferrimagnetic Gd/Fe multilayers. We show that the spin-orbit torque efficiency of Ni$_{1-x}$Cu$_{x}$ increases with the Ni/Cu atomic ratio, reaching values comparable to those of Pt for Ni$_{55}$Cu$_{45}$. Furthermore, we demonstrate magnetization switching of a 20-nm-thick Gd/Fe multilayer with a threshold current that decreases with increasing Ni concentration, similar to the spin-orbit torque efficiency. Our findings show that Ni$_{1-x}$Cu$_{x}$$-$based magnetic heterostructures allow for efficient control of the magnetization by electric currents. △ Less

Submitted 29 December, 2023; originally announced December 2023.

Journal ref: Appl. Phys. Lett. 123, 262403 (2023)

Monte-Carlo ray-tracing studies of multiplexed prismatic graphite analyzers for the cold-neutron triple-axis spectrometer at the High Flux Isotope Reactor

Authors: Adit S. Desai, Travis J. Williams, Marcus Daum, Gabriele Sala, Adam A. Aczel, Garrett E. Granroth, Martin Mourigal

Abstract: A modern cold triple-axis spectrometer to study quantum condensed matter systems is planned for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Here, we describe the conceptual principles and design of a secondary spectrometer using a multiplexed, prismatic analyzer system relying on graphite crystals and inspired by the successful implementation of the Continuous Angle Mult… ▽ More A modern cold triple-axis spectrometer to study quantum condensed matter systems is planned for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Here, we describe the conceptual principles and design of a secondary spectrometer using a multiplexed, prismatic analyzer system relying on graphite crystals and inspired by the successful implementation of the Continuous Angle Multiple Energy Analysis (CAMEA) spectrometers at the Paul Scherrer Institute. This project is currently known as MANTA for Multi-analyzer Neutron Triple-Axis. We report Monte-Carlo ray-tracing simulations on a simple but realistic sample scattering kernel to further illustrate the prismatic analyzer concept's workings, calibration, and performance. Then, we introduce a new statistical analysis approach based on the prismatic analyzer concept to improve the number of final energies measured on the spectrometer. We also study possible evolutions in the CAMEA design relevant for MANTA. △ Less

Submitted 16 June, 2024; v1 submitted 5 December, 2023; originally announced December 2023.

Comments: 11 pages, 11 figures

Revisiting spin ice physics in the ferromagnetic Ising pyrochlore Pr$_2$Sn$_2$O$_7$

Authors: Brenden R. Ortiz, Paul M. Sarte, Ganesh Pokharel, Miles J. Knudston, Steven J. Gomez Alvarado, Andrew F. May, Stuart Calder, Lucile Mangin-Thro, Andrew R. Wildes, Haidong Zhou, Gabriele Sala, Chris R. Wiebe, Stephen D. Wilson, Joseph A. M. Paddison, Adam A. Aczel

Abstract: Pyrochlore materials are characterized by their hallmark network of corner-sharing rare-earth tetrahedra, which can produce a wide array of complex magnetic ground states. Ferromagnetic Ising pyrochlores often obey the "two-in-two-out" spin ice rules, which can lead to a highly-degenerate spin structure. Large moment systems, such as Ho$_2$Ti$_2$O$_7$ and Dy$_2$Ti$_2$O$_7$, tend to host a classica… ▽ More Pyrochlore materials are characterized by their hallmark network of corner-sharing rare-earth tetrahedra, which can produce a wide array of complex magnetic ground states. Ferromagnetic Ising pyrochlores often obey the "two-in-two-out" spin ice rules, which can lead to a highly-degenerate spin structure. Large moment systems, such as Ho$_2$Ti$_2$O$_7$ and Dy$_2$Ti$_2$O$_7$, tend to host a classical spin ice state with low-temperature spin freezing and emergent magnetic monopoles. Systems with smaller effective moments, such as Pr$^{3+}$-based pyrochlores, have been proposed as excellent candidates for hosting a "quantum spin ice" characterized by entanglement and a slew of exotic quasiparticle excitations. However, experimental evidence for a quantum spin ice state has remained elusive. Here, we show that the low-temperature magnetic properties of Pr$_2$Sn$_2$O$_7$ satisfy several important criteria for continued consideration as a quantum spin ice. We find that Pr$_2$Sn$_2$O$_7$ exhibits a partially spin-frozen ground state with a large volume fraction of dynamic magnetism. Our comprehensive bulk characterization and neutron scattering measurements enable us to map out the magnetic field-temperature phase diagram, producing results consistent with expectations for a ferromagnetic Ising pyrochlore. We identify key hallmarks of spin ice physics, and show that the application of small magnetic fields ($μ_0 H_c \sim$0.75T) suppresses the spin ice state and induces a long-range ordered magnetic structure. Together, our work clarifies the current state of Pr$_2$Sn$_2$O$_7$ and encourages future studies aimed at exploring the potential for a quantum spin ice ground state in this system. △ Less

Submitted 24 October, 2023; originally announced October 2023.

Implementation of a laser-neutron pump-probe capability at HYSPEC

Authors: Chengyun Hua, David A. Tennant, Andrei Savici, Vladislav Sedov, Gabriele Sala, Barry Winn

Abstract: Exciting new fundamental scientific questions are currently being raised regarding nonequilibrium dynamics in spin systems, as this directly relates to low power and low loss energy transport for spintronics. Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) is an indispensable tool to study spin excitations in complex magnetic materials. However, conventional INS spectrometers currently only perform steady-stat… ▽ More Exciting new fundamental scientific questions are currently being raised regarding nonequilibrium dynamics in spin systems, as this directly relates to low power and low loss energy transport for spintronics. Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) is an indispensable tool to study spin excitations in complex magnetic materials. However, conventional INS spectrometers currently only perform steady-state measurements and probe averaged properties over many collision events between spin excitations in thermodynamic equilibrium, while the exact picture of re-equilibration of these excitations remains unknown. In this work, we designed and implemented a time-resolved laser-neutron pump-probe capability at HYSPEC (Hybrid Spectrometer, beamline 14-B) at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This capability allows us to excite out-of-equilibrium magnons with a nanosecond pulsed laser source and probe the resulting dynamics using INS. Here, we discussed technical aspects to implement such a capability in a neutron beamline, including choices of suitable neutron instrumentation and material systems, laser excitation scheme, experimental configurations, and relevant firmware and software development to allow for time-synchronized pump-probe measurements. We demonstrated that the laser-induced nonequilibrium structural factor is able to be resolved by INS in a quantum magnet. The method developed in this work will provide SNS with advanced capabilities for performing out-of-equilibrium measurements, opening up an entirely new research direction to study out-of-equilibrium phenomena using neutrons. △ Less

Submitted 16 October, 2023; originally announced October 2023.

Spin-orbital order and excitons in magnetoresistive HoBi

Authors: J. Gaudet, H. -Y. Yang, E. M. Smith, T. Halloran, J. P. Clancy, J. A. Rodriguez-Rivera, Guangyong Xu, Y. Zhao, W. C. Chen, G. Sala, A. A. Aczel, B. D. Gaulin, F. Tafti, C. Broholm

Abstract: The magnetism of the rock-salt $fcc$ rare-earth monopnictide HoBi, a candidate topological material with extreme magnetoresistance, is investigated. From the Ho$^{3+}$ non-Kramers $J$=8 spin-orbital multiplet, the cubic crystal electric field yields six nearly degenerate low-energy levels. These constitute an anisotropic magnetic moment with a Jahn-Teller-like coupling to the lattice. In the cubic… ▽ More The magnetism of the rock-salt $fcc$ rare-earth monopnictide HoBi, a candidate topological material with extreme magnetoresistance, is investigated. From the Ho$^{3+}$ non-Kramers $J$=8 spin-orbital multiplet, the cubic crystal electric field yields six nearly degenerate low-energy levels. These constitute an anisotropic magnetic moment with a Jahn-Teller-like coupling to the lattice. In the cubic phase for $T>T_N~=~5.72(1)~K$, the paramagnetic neutron scattering is centered at $\mathbf{k}=(\frac{1}{2}\frac{1}{2}\frac{1}{2})$ and was fit to dominant antiferromagnetic interactions between Ho spins separated by $\{100\}$ and ferromagnetic interactions between spins displaced by $\{\frac{1}{2}\frac{1}{2}0\}$. For $T<T_N$, a type-II AFM long-range order with $\mathbf{k}=(\frac{1}{2}\frac{1}{2}\frac{1}{2})$ develops along with a tetragonal lattice distortion. While neutron diffraction from a multi-domain sample cannot unambiguously determine the spin orientation within a domain, the bulk magnetization, structural distortion, and our measurements of the magnetic excitations all show the easy axis coincides with the tetragonal axis. The weakly dispersive excitons for $T<T_N$ can be accounted for by a spin Hamiltonian that includes the crystal electric field and exchange interactions within the Random Phase Approximation. △ Less

Submitted 12 January, 2023; originally announced January 2023.

Comments: 10 pages, 6 figures

Giant orbital Hall effect and orbital-to-spin conversion in 3d, 5d, and 4f metallic heterostructures

Authors: Giacomo Sala, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: The orbital Hall effect provides an alternative means to the spin Hall effect to convert a charge current into a flow of angular momentum. Recently, compelling signatures of orbital Hall effects have been identified in 3d transition metals. Here, we report a systematic study of the generation, transmission, and conversion of orbital currents in heterostructures comprising 3d, 5d, and 4f metals. We… ▽ More The orbital Hall effect provides an alternative means to the spin Hall effect to convert a charge current into a flow of angular momentum. Recently, compelling signatures of orbital Hall effects have been identified in 3d transition metals. Here, we report a systematic study of the generation, transmission, and conversion of orbital currents in heterostructures comprising 3d, 5d, and 4f metals. We show that the orbital Hall conductivity of Cr reaches giant values of the order of 5*10^5 Ohm^{-1} m^{-1} and that Pt presents a strong orbital Hall effect in addition to the spin Hall effect. Measurements performed as a function of thickness of nonmagnetic Cr, Mn, and Pt layers and ferromagnetic Co and Ni layers reveal how the orbital and spin currents compete or assist each other in determining the spin-orbit torques acting on the magnetic layer. We further show how this interplay can be drastically modulated by introducing 4 f spacers between the nonmagnetic and magnetic layers. Gd and Tb act as very efficient orbital-to-spin current converters, boosting the spin-orbit torques generated by Cr by a factor of 4 and reversing the sign of the torques generated by Pt. To interpret our results, we present a generalized drift-diffusion model that includes both spin and orbital Hall effects and describes their interconversion mediated by spin-orbit coupling. △ Less

Submitted 13 July, 2022; originally announced July 2022.

Journal ref: Physical Review RESEARCH 4, 033037 (2022)

Time-dependent multistate switching of topological antiferromagnetic order in Mn$_3$Sn

Authors: Gunasheel Kauwtilyaa Krishnaswamy, Giacomo Sala, Benjamin Jacot, Richard Schlitz, Charles-Henri Lambert, Paul Noel, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: The manipulation of antiferromagnetic order by means of spin-orbit torques opens unprecedented opportunities to exploit the dynamics of antiferromagnets in spintronic devices. In this work, we investigate the current-induced switching of the magnetic octupole vector in the Weyl antiferromagnet Mn$_3$Sn as a function of pulse shape, field, temperature, and time. We find that the switching behavior… ▽ More The manipulation of antiferromagnetic order by means of spin-orbit torques opens unprecedented opportunities to exploit the dynamics of antiferromagnets in spintronic devices. In this work, we investigate the current-induced switching of the magnetic octupole vector in the Weyl antiferromagnet Mn$_3$Sn as a function of pulse shape, field, temperature, and time. We find that the switching behavior can be either bistable or tristable depending on the temporal structure of the current pulses. Time-resolved Hall effect measurements reveal that Mn$_3$Sn switching proceeds via a two-step demagnetization-remagnetization process caused by self-heating over a timescale of tens of ns followed by cooling in the presence of spin-orbit torques. Our results shed light on the switching dynamics of Mn$_3$Sn and prove the existence of extrinsic limits on its switching speed. △ Less

Submitted 8 October, 2022; v1 submitted 11 May, 2022; originally announced May 2022.

Comments: Rectified wrong order of MS and Supplement

Gaps in Topological Magnon Spectra: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Effects

Authors: Seung-Hwan Do, Joseph A. M. Paddison, Gabriele Sala, Travis J. Williams, Koji Kaneko, Keitaro Kuwahara, A. F. May, Jiaqiang Yan, Michael A. McGuire, Matthew B. Stone, Mark D. Lumsden, Andrew D. Christianson

Abstract: For topological magnon spectra, determining and explaining the presence of a gap at a magnon crossing point is a key to characterize the topological properties of the system. An inelastic neutron scattering study of a single crystal is a powerful experimental technique that is widely employed to probe the magnetic excitation spectra of topological materials. Here, we show that when the scattering… ▽ More For topological magnon spectra, determining and explaining the presence of a gap at a magnon crossing point is a key to characterize the topological properties of the system. An inelastic neutron scattering study of a single crystal is a powerful experimental technique that is widely employed to probe the magnetic excitation spectra of topological materials. Here, we show that when the scattering intensity rapidly disperses in the vicinity of a crossing point, such as a Dirac point, the apparent topological gap size is extremely sensitive to experimental conditions including sample mosaic, resolution, and momentum integration range. We demonstrate these effects using comprehensive neutron-scattering measurements of CrCl$_3$. Our measurements confirm the gapless nature of the Dirac magnon in CrCl$_3$, but also reveal an artificial, i.e. extrinsic, magnon gap unless the momentum integration range is carefully controlled. Our study provides an explanation of the apparent discrepancies between spectroscopic and first-principles estimates of Dirac magnon gap sizes, and provides guidelines for accurate spectroscopic measurement of topological magnon gaps. △ Less

Submitted 7 April, 2022; originally announced April 2022.

Comments: 6 pages and 4 figures

Dynamical scaling as a signature of multiple phase competition in Yb$_2$Ti$_2$O$_7$

Authors: Allen Scheie, Owen Benton, Mathieu Taillefumier, Ludovic D. C. Jaubert, Gabriele Sala, Niina Jalarvo, Seyed M. Koohpayeh, Nic Shannon

Abstract: $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7… ▽ More $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$ is a celebrated example of a pyrochlore magnet with highly-frustrated, anisotropic exchange interactions. To date, attention has largely focused on its unusual, static properties, many of which can be understood as coming from the competition between different types of magnetic order. Here we use inelastic neutron scattering with exceptionally high energy resolution to explore the dynamical properties of $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$. We find that spin correlations exhibit dynamical scaling, analogous to behavior found near to a quantum critical point. We show that the observed scaling collapse can be explained within a phenomenological theory of multiple--phase competition, and confirm that a scaling collapse is also seen in semi--classical simulations of a microscopic model of $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$. These results suggest a general picture for dynamics in systems with competing ground states. △ Less

Submitted 22 February, 2022; originally announced February 2022.

Comments: 5 pages, 4 figures, 8 pages supplememtnal materials

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 217202 (2022)

Chiral Coupling between Magnetic Layers with Orthogonal Magnetization

Authors: Can Onur Avci, Charles-Henri Lambert, Giacomo Sala, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: We report on the occurrence of strong interlayer Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) between an in-plane magnetized Co layer and a perpendicularly magnetized TbFe layer through a Pt spacer. The DMI causes a chiral coupling that favors one-handed orthogonal magnetic configurations of Co and TbFe, which we reveal through Hall effect and magnetoresistance measurements. The DMI coupling mediated b… ▽ More We report on the occurrence of strong interlayer Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) between an in-plane magnetized Co layer and a perpendicularly magnetized TbFe layer through a Pt spacer. The DMI causes a chiral coupling that favors one-handed orthogonal magnetic configurations of Co and TbFe, which we reveal through Hall effect and magnetoresistance measurements. The DMI coupling mediated by Pt causes effective magnetic fields on either layer of up to 10-15 mT, which decrease monotonously with increasing Pt thickness. Ru, Ta, and Ti spacers mediate a significantly smaller coupling compared to Pt, highlighting the essential role of Pt in inducing the interlayer DMI. These results are relevant to understand and maximize the interlayer coupling induced by the DMI as well as to design spintronic devices with chiral spin textures. △ Less

Submitted 17 November, 2021; originally announced November 2021.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 127, 167202 (2021)

Interplay of voltage control of magnetic anisotropy, spin transfer torque, and heat in the spin-orbit torque switching in three-terminal magnetic tunnel junctions

Authors: Viola Krizakova, Eva Grimaldi, Kevin Garello, Giacomo Sala, Sebastien Couet, Gouri Sankar Kar, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: We use three-terminal magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) designed for field-free switching by spin-orbit torques (SOTs) to systematically study the impact of dual voltage pulses on the switching performances. We show that the concurrent action of an SOT pulse and an MTJ bias pulse allows for reducing the critical switching energy below the level typical of spin transfer torque while preserving the a… ▽ More We use three-terminal magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) designed for field-free switching by spin-orbit torques (SOTs) to systematically study the impact of dual voltage pulses on the switching performances. We show that the concurrent action of an SOT pulse and an MTJ bias pulse allows for reducing the critical switching energy below the level typical of spin transfer torque while preserving the ability to switch the MTJ on the sub-ns time scale. By performing dc and real-time electrical measurements, we discriminate and quantify three effects arising from the MTJ bias: the voltage-controlled change of the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, current-induced heating, and the spin transfer torque. The experimental results are supported by micromagnetic modeling. We observe that, depending on the pulse duration and the MTJ diameter, different effects take a lead in assisting the SOTs in the magnetization reversal process. Finally, we present a compact model that allows for evaluating the impact of each effect due to the MTJ bias on the critical switching parameters. Our results provide input to optimize the switching of three-terminal devices as a function of time, size, and material parameters. △ Less

Submitted 2 June, 2021; originally announced June 2021.

Journal ref: Physical Review Applied 15, 054055 (2021)

Field- and current-driven magnetic domain-wall inverter and diode

Authors: Zhaochu Luo, Stefan Schären, Aleš Hrabec, Trong Phuong Dao, Giacomo Sala, Simone Finizio, Junxiao Feng, Sina Mayr, Jörg Raabe, Pietro Gambardella, Laura J. Heyderman

Abstract: We investigate the inversion process of magnetic domain walls (DWs) propagating through synthetic noncollinear magnetic textures, whereby an up/down DW can be transformed into a down/up DW and vice versa. We exploit the lateral coupling between out-of-plane and in-plane magnetic regions induced by the interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction in Pt/Co/AlOx trilayers to realize both field-drive… ▽ More We investigate the inversion process of magnetic domain walls (DWs) propagating through synthetic noncollinear magnetic textures, whereby an up/down DW can be transformed into a down/up DW and vice versa. We exploit the lateral coupling between out-of-plane and in-plane magnetic regions induced by the interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction in Pt/Co/AlOx trilayers to realize both field-driven and current-driven magnetic DW inverters. The inverters consist of narrow in-plane magnetic regions embedded in out-of-plane DW racetracks. Magnetic imaging and micromagnetic simulations provide insight into the DW inversion mechanism, showing that DW inversion proceeds by annihilation of the incoming domain on one side of the in-plane region and nucleation of a reverse domain on the opposite side. By changing the shape of the in-plane magnetic region, we show that the DW inversion efficiency can be tuned by adjusting the ratio between the chiral coupling energy at the inverter boundary and the energy cost of nucleating a reverse domain. Finally, we realize an asymmetric DW inverter that has nonreciprocal inversion properties and demonstrate that such a device can operate as a DW diode. Our results provide input for the versatile manipulation of DWs in magnetic racetracks and the design of efficient DW devices for nonvolatile magnetic logic schemes. △ Less

Submitted 14 May, 2021; originally announced May 2021.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Applied 15, 034077 (2021)

A two-terminal spin valve device controlled by spin-orbit torques with enhanced giant magnetoresistance

Authors: Can Onur Avci, Charles-Henri Lambert, Giacomo Sala, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: We report on the combination of current-induced spin-orbit torques and giant magnetoresistance in a single device to achieve all-electrical write and read out of the magnetization. The device consists of perpendicularly magnetized TbCo and Co layers separated by a Pt or Cu spacer. Current injection through such layers exerts spin-orbit torques and switches the magnetization of the Co layer while t… ▽ More We report on the combination of current-induced spin-orbit torques and giant magnetoresistance in a single device to achieve all-electrical write and read out of the magnetization. The device consists of perpendicularly magnetized TbCo and Co layers separated by a Pt or Cu spacer. Current injection through such layers exerts spin-orbit torques and switches the magnetization of the Co layer while the TbCo magnetization remains fixed. Subsequent current injection of lower amplitude senses the relative orientation of the magnetization of the Co and TbCo layers, which results in two distinct resistance levels for parallel and antiparallel alignment due to the current-in-plane giant magnetoresistance effect. We further show that the giant magnetoresistance of devices including a single TbCo/spacer/Co trilayer can be improved from 0.02% to 6% by using a Cu spacer instead of Pt. This type of devices offers an alternative route to a two terminal spintronic memory that can be fabricated with moderate effort. △ Less

Submitted 12 August, 2021; v1 submitted 27 April, 2021; originally announced April 2021.

Comments: 18 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Appl. Phys. Lett. 119, 032406 (2021)

Magnetic properties of the Shastry-Sutherland lattice material BaNd$_2$ZnO$_5$

Authors: Yuto Ishii, G. Sala, M. B. Stone, V. O. Garlea, S. Calder, Jie Chen, Hiroyuki K. Yoshida, Shuhei Fukuoka, Jiaqiang Yan, Clarina dela Cruz, Mao-Hua Du, DavidS. Parker, Hao Zhang, C. Batista, Kazunari Yamaura, A. D. Christianson

Abstract: We investigate the physical properties of the Shastry-Sutherland lattice material BaNd$_2$ZnO$_5$. Neutron diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, and specific heat measurements reveal antiferromagnetic order below 1.65 K. The magnetic order is found to be a 2-$\boldsymbol{Q}$ magnetic structure with the magnetic moments lying in the Shastry-Sutherland lattice planes comprising the tetragonal crysta… ▽ More We investigate the physical properties of the Shastry-Sutherland lattice material BaNd$_2$ZnO$_5$. Neutron diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, and specific heat measurements reveal antiferromagnetic order below 1.65 K. The magnetic order is found to be a 2-$\boldsymbol{Q}$ magnetic structure with the magnetic moments lying in the Shastry-Sutherland lattice planes comprising the tetragonal crystal structure of BaNd$_2$ZnO$_5$. The ordered moment for this structure is 1.9(1) $μ_B$ per Nd ion. Inelastic neutron scattering measurements reveal that the crystal field ground state doublet is well separated from the first excited state at 8 meV. The crystal field Hamiltonian is determined through simultaneous refinement of models with both the LS coupling and intermediate coupling approximations to the inelastic neutron scattering and magnetic susceptibility data. The ground state doublet indicates that the magnetic moments lie primarily in the basal plane with magnitude consistent with the size of the determined ordered moment. △ Less

Submitted 20 March, 2021; originally announced March 2021.

Comments: 13 pages, 8 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Materials 5, 064418 (2021)

Real-time Hall-effect detection of current-induced magnetization dynamics in ferrimagnets

Authors: G. Sala, V. Krizakova, E. Grimaldi, C. -H. Lambert, T. Devolder, P. Gambardella

Abstract: Measurements of the transverse Hall resistance are widely used to investigate electron transport, magnetization phenomena, and topological quantum states. Owing to the difficulty of probing transient changes of the transverse resistance, the vast majority of Hall effect experiments are carried out in stationary conditions using either dc or ac currents. Here we present an approach to perform time-… ▽ More Measurements of the transverse Hall resistance are widely used to investigate electron transport, magnetization phenomena, and topological quantum states. Owing to the difficulty of probing transient changes of the transverse resistance, the vast majority of Hall effect experiments are carried out in stationary conditions using either dc or ac currents. Here we present an approach to perform time-resolved measurements of the transient Hall resistance during current-pulse injection with sub-nanosecond temporal resolution. We apply this technique to investigate in real-time the magnetization reversal caused by spin-orbit torques in ferrimagnetic GdFeCo dots. Single-shot Hall effect measurements show that the current-induced switching of GdFeCo is widely distributed in time and characterized by significant activation delays, which limit the total switching speed despite the high domain-wall velocity typical of ferrimagnets. Our method applies to a broad range of current-induced phenomena and can be combined with non-electrical excitations to perform pump-probe Hall effect measurements. △ Less

Submitted 1 February, 2021; originally announced February 2021.

Journal ref: Nat. Comm. 12, 656 (2021)

Complex magnetic phases in polar tetragonal intermetallic NdCoGe$_3$

Authors: Binod K. Rai, Ganesh Pokharel, Hasitha Suriya Arachchige, Seung-Hwan Do, Qiang Zhang, Masaaki Matsuda, Matthias Frontzek, Gabriele Sala, V. Ovidiu Garlea, Andrew D. Christianson, Andrew F. May

Abstract: Polar materials can host a variety of topologically significant magnetic phases, which often emerge from a modulated magnetic ground state. Relatively few noncentrosymmetric tetragonal materials have been shown to host topological spin textures and new candidate materials are necessary to expand the current theoretical models. This manuscript reports on the anisotropic magnetism in the polar, tetr… ▽ More Polar materials can host a variety of topologically significant magnetic phases, which often emerge from a modulated magnetic ground state. Relatively few noncentrosymmetric tetragonal materials have been shown to host topological spin textures and new candidate materials are necessary to expand the current theoretical models. This manuscript reports on the anisotropic magnetism in the polar, tetragonal material NdCoGe$_3$ via thermodynamic and neutron diffraction measurements. The previously reported $H$-$T$ phase diagram is updated to include several additional phases, which exist for both $H$ = 0 and with an applied field H$\perp$ c. Neutron diffraction data reveal that the magnetic structures below $T_{N1}$ = 3.70 K and $T_{N2}$ = 3.50 K are incommensurate, with a ground state magnetic order that is incommensurate in all directions with the propagation vector $\vec{k}$ = (0.494, 0.0044, 0.385) at 1.8 K. A unique magnetic structure solution is not achievable, but the possible single and multi-$\vec{k}$ spin models are discussed. These results demonstrate that NdCoGe3 hosts complicated magnetic order derived from modulated magnetic moments. △ Less

Submitted 18 December, 2020; originally announced December 2020.

Comments: 11 pages, 10 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 103, 014426 (2021)

Systematic study of nonmagnetic resistance changes due to electrical pulsing in single metal layers and metal/antiferromagnet bilayers

Authors: B. J. Jacot, G. Krishnaswamy, G. Sala, C. O. Avci, S. Vélez, P. Gambardella, C. -H. Lambert

Abstract: Intense current pulses are often required to operate microelectronic and spintronic devices. Notably, strong current pulses have been shown to induce magnetoresistance changes attributed to domain reorientation in antiferromagnet/heavy metal bilayers and non-centrosymmetric antiferromagnets. In such cases, nonmagnetic resistivity changes may dominate over signatures of antiferromagnetic switching.… ▽ More Intense current pulses are often required to operate microelectronic and spintronic devices. Notably, strong current pulses have been shown to induce magnetoresistance changes attributed to domain reorientation in antiferromagnet/heavy metal bilayers and non-centrosymmetric antiferromagnets. In such cases, nonmagnetic resistivity changes may dominate over signatures of antiferromagnetic switching. We report systematic measurements of the current-induced changes of the transverse and longitudinal resistance of Pt and Pt/NiO layers deposited on insulating substrates, namely Si/SiO$_2$, Si/Si$_3$N$_4$, and Al$_2$O$_3$. We identify the range of pulse amplitude and length that can be used without affecting the resistance and show that it increases with the device size and thermal diffusivity of the substrate. No significant difference is observed in the resistive response of Pt and NiO/Pt devices, thus precluding evidence on the switching of antiferromagnetic domains in NiO. The variation of the transverse resistance is associated to a thermally-activated process in Pt that decays following a double exponential law with characteristic timescales of a few minutes to hours. We use a Wheatstone bridge model to discriminate between positive and negative resistance changes, highlighting competing annealing and electromigration effects. Depending on the training of the devices, the transverse resistance can either increase or decrease between current pulses. Further, we elucidate the origin of the nonmonotonic resistance baseline, which we attribute to training effects combined with the asymmetric distribution of the current. These results provide insight into the origin of current-induced resistance changes in metal layers and a guide to minimize nonmagnetic artifacts in switching experiments of antiferromagnets. △ Less

Submitted 26 November, 2020; originally announced November 2020.

Journal ref: Journal of Applied Physics 128, 173902 (2020)

Single-shot dynamics of spin-orbit torque and spin transfer torque switching in three-terminal magnetic tunnel junctions

Authors: Eva Grimaldi, Viola Krizakova, Giacomo Sala, Farrukh Yasin, Sébastien Couet, Gouri Sankar Kar, Kevin Garello, Pietro Gambardella

Abstract: Current-induced spin-transfer torques (STT) and spin-orbit torques (SOT) enable the electrical switching of magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) in nonvolatile magnetic random access memories. In order to develop faster memory devices, an improvement of the timescales underlying the current driven magnetization dynamics is required. Here we report all-electrical time-resolved measurements of magnetiza… ▽ More Current-induced spin-transfer torques (STT) and spin-orbit torques (SOT) enable the electrical switching of magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) in nonvolatile magnetic random access memories. In order to develop faster memory devices, an improvement of the timescales underlying the current driven magnetization dynamics is required. Here we report all-electrical time-resolved measurements of magnetization reversal driven by SOT in a three-terminal MTJ device. Single-shot measurements of the MTJ resistance during current injection reveal that SOT switching involves a stochastic two-step process consisting of a domain nucleation time and propagation time, which have different genesis, timescales, and statistical distributions compared to STT switching. We further show that the combination of SOT, STT, and voltage control of magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) leads to reproducible sub-ns switching with a spread of the cumulative switching time smaller than 0.2 ns. Our measurements unravel the combined impact of SOT, STT, and VCMA in determining the switching speed and efficiency of MTJ devices. △ Less

Submitted 17 November, 2020; originally announced November 2020.

Journal ref: Nature Nanotechnology 15, 111-117 (2020)

Magnetic Excitations of the Hybrid Multiferroic (ND4)2FeCl5D2O

Authors: Xiaojian Bai, Randy S. Fishman, Gabriele Sala, Daniel M. Pajerowski, V. Ovidiu Garlea, Tao Hong, Minseong Lee, Jaime A. Fernandez-Baca, Huibo Cao, Wei Tian

Abstract: We report a comprehensive inelastic neutron scattering study of the hybrid molecule-based multiferroic compound (ND4)2FeCl5D2O in the zero-field incommensurate cycloidal phase and the high-field quasi-collinear phase. The spontaneous electric polarization changes its direction concurrently with the field-induced magnetic transition, from mostly aligned with the crystallographic a-axis to the c-axi… ▽ More We report a comprehensive inelastic neutron scattering study of the hybrid molecule-based multiferroic compound (ND4)2FeCl5D2O in the zero-field incommensurate cycloidal phase and the high-field quasi-collinear phase. The spontaneous electric polarization changes its direction concurrently with the field-induced magnetic transition, from mostly aligned with the crystallographic a-axis to the c-axis. To account for such change of polarization direction, the underlying multiferroic mechanism was proposed to switch from the spin-current model induced via the inverse Dzyalloshinskii-Moriya interaction to the p-d hybridization model. We perform a detailed analysis of the inelastic neutron data of (ND4)2FeCl5D2O using linear spin-wave theory to quantify magnetic interaction strengths and investigate possible impact of different multiferroic mechanisms on the magnetic couplings. Our result reveals that the spin dynamics of both multiferroic phases can be well-described by a Heisenberg Hamiltonian with an easy-plane anisotropy. We do not find notable differences between the optimal model parameters of the two phases. The hierarchy of exchange couplings and the balance among frustrated interactions remain the same between two phases, suggesting that magnetic interactions in (ND4)2FeCl5D2O are much more robust than the electric polarization in response to delicate reorganizations of the electronic degrees of freedom in an applied magnetic field. △ Less

Submitted 25 July, 2021; v1 submitted 15 August, 2020; originally announced August 2020.

Comments: 18 pages, 4 main figures, 1 Table

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 103, 224411 (2021)

Magnetism of Nd$_2$O$_3$ single crystals near the Néel temperature

Authors: Binod K. Rai, A. D. Christianson, G. Sala, M. B. Stone, Y. Liu, A. F. May

Abstract: Single crystals of Nd$_2$O$_3$ were grown and characterized using neutron scattering and thermodynamic measurements. Nd$_2$O$_3$ has long-range antiferromagnetic order below $T_{\rm N}$ = 0.55 K and specific heat measurements have demonstrated that a significant amount of the magnetic entropy is released above $T_{\rm N}$. Inelastic neutron scattering experiments reveal a magnetic mode(s) with lit… ▽ More Single crystals of Nd$_2$O$_3$ were grown and characterized using neutron scattering and thermodynamic measurements. Nd$_2$O$_3$ has long-range antiferromagnetic order below $T_{\rm N}$ = 0.55 K and specific heat measurements have demonstrated that a significant amount of the magnetic entropy is released above $T_{\rm N}$. Inelastic neutron scattering experiments reveal a magnetic mode(s) with little dispersion peaked at $\approx$ 0.37 meV that is of greatest intensity below $T_{\rm N}$ but persists above 2$T_{\rm N}$. This persistence of dynamic correlations is likely related to frustrated interactions associated with the nearly-ideal stacked triangular lattice geometry of $J_{\textrm{eff}}$ = 1/2 spins on Nd$^{3+}$ ions. The magnetization is observed to be strongly anisotropic at all temperatures due to crystal field effects, with easy-plane anisotropy observed. A non-compensated magnetic structure is inferred from the temperature-dependence of the magnetization when a magnetic field of sufficient strength is applied within the basal plane near $T_{\rm N}$, and the evolution of the long-range order is summarized in a temperature-field phase diagram. △ Less

Submitted 5 August, 2020; originally announced August 2020.

Comments: 11 pages

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 102, 054434 (2020)

Emergent magnetic behaviour in the frustrated Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ garnet

Authors: Lise Orduk Sandberg, Richard Edberg, Kasper S. Pedersen, Monica Ciomaga Hatnean, Geetha Balakrishnan, Lucile Mangin-Thro, Andrew Wildes, B. Fak, Georg Ehlers, Gabriele Sala, Patrik Henelius, Kim Lefmann, Pascale P. Deen

Abstract: We report neutron scattering, magnetic susceptibility and Monte Carlo theoretical analysis to verify the short range nature of the magnetic structure and spin-spin correlations in a Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ single crystal. The quantum spin state of Yb$^{3+}$ in Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ is verified. The quantum spins organise into a short ranged emergent director state for T $<$ 0.4 K derived from anisotro… ▽ More We report neutron scattering, magnetic susceptibility and Monte Carlo theoretical analysis to verify the short range nature of the magnetic structure and spin-spin correlations in a Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ single crystal. The quantum spin state of Yb$^{3+}$ in Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ is verified. The quantum spins organise into a short ranged emergent director state for T $<$ 0.4 K derived from anisotropy and near neighbour exchange. We derive the magnitude of the near neighbour exchange interactions $0.6\; {\rm K} < J_1 < 0.7\; {\rm K}, J_2 = 0.12$~K and the magnitude of the dipolar exchange interaction, $D$, in the range $0.18 < D < 0.21$ K. Certain aspects of the broad experimental dataset can be modelled using a $J_1D$ model with ferromagnetic near neighbour spin-spin correlations while other aspects of the data can be accurately reproduced using a $J_1J_2D$ model with antiferromagnetic near neighbour spin-spin correlation. As such, although we do not quantify all the relevant exchange interactions we nevertheless provide a strong basis for the understanding of the complex Hamiltonian required to fully describe the magnetic state of Yb$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$. △ Less

Submitted 30 April, 2021; v1 submitted 21 May, 2020; originally announced May 2020.

Comments: Main paper 10 pages, appendix 6 pages

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 104, 064425 (2021)

Van Hove singularity in the magnon spectrum of the antiferromagnetic quantum honeycomb lattice

Authors: G. Sala, M. B. Stone, Binod K. Rai, A. F. May, Pontus Laurell, V. O. Garlea, N. P. Butch, M. D. Lumsden, G. Ehlers, G. Pokharel, D. Mandrus, D. S. Parker, S. Okamoto, Gábor B. Halász, A. D. Christianson

Abstract: The magnetic excitation spectrum of the quantum magnet YbCl$_3$ is studied with inelastic neutron scattering. The spectrum exhibits an unusually sharp feature within a broad continuum, as well as conventional spin waves. By including both transverse and longitudinal channels of the neutron response, linear spin wave theory with a single Heisenberg interaction on the honeycomb lattice reproduces al… ▽ More The magnetic excitation spectrum of the quantum magnet YbCl$_3$ is studied with inelastic neutron scattering. The spectrum exhibits an unusually sharp feature within a broad continuum, as well as conventional spin waves. By including both transverse and longitudinal channels of the neutron response, linear spin wave theory with a single Heisenberg interaction on the honeycomb lattice reproduces all of the key features in the spectrum. In particular, the broad continuum corresponds to a two-magnon contribution from the longitudinal channel, while the sharp feature within this continuum is identified as a Van Hove singularity in the joint density of states, which indicates the two-dimensional nature of the two-magnon continuum. We term these singularities magneto-caustic features in analogy with caustic features in ray optics where focused envelopes of light are generated when light passes through or reflects from curved or distorted surfaces. The experimental demonstration of a sharp Van Hove singularity in a two-magnon continuum is important because analogous features in potential two-spinon continua could distinguish quantum spin liquids from merely disordered systems. These results establish YbCl$_3$ as a nearly ideal two-dimensional honeycomb lattice material hosting strong quantum effects in the unfrustrated limit. △ Less

Submitted 3 March, 2020; originally announced March 2020.

Comments: 17 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Nature Communications 12, 171 (2021)

Cluster Frustration in the Breathing Pyrochlore Magnet LiGaCr4S8

Authors: Ganesh Pokharel, Hasitha Suriya Arachchige, Travis J. Williams, Andrew F. May, Randy S. Fishman, Gabriele Sala, Stuart Calder, Georg Ehlers, David S. Parker, Tao Hong, Andrew Wildes, David Mandrus, Joseph A. M. Paddison, Andrew D. Christianson

Abstract: We present a comprehensive neutron scattering study of the breathing pyrochlore magnet LiGaCr4S8. We observe an unconventional magnetic excitation spectrum with a separation of high and low-energy spin dynamics in the correlated paramagnetic regime above a spin-freezing transition at 12(2) K. By fitting to magnetic diffuse-scattering data, we parameterize the spin Hamiltonian. We find that interac… ▽ More We present a comprehensive neutron scattering study of the breathing pyrochlore magnet LiGaCr4S8. We observe an unconventional magnetic excitation spectrum with a separation of high and low-energy spin dynamics in the correlated paramagnetic regime above a spin-freezing transition at 12(2) K. By fitting to magnetic diffuse-scattering data, we parameterize the spin Hamiltonian. We find that interactions are ferromagnetic within the large and small tetrahedra of the breathing pyrochlore lattice, but antiferromagnetic further-neighbor interactions are also essential to explain our data, in qualitative agreement with density-functional theory predictions [Ghoshet al.,npj Quantum Mater.4, 63 (2019)]. We explain the origin of geometrical frustration in LiGaCr4S8 interms of net antiferromagnetic coupling between emergent tetrahedral spin clusters that occupy a face-centered lattice. Our results provide insight into the emergence of frustration in the presence of strong further-neighbor couplings, and a blueprint for the determination of magnetic interactions in classical spin liquids. △ Less

Submitted 22 February, 2020; originally announced February 2020.

Comments: Supplemental information available upon request

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 125, 167201 (2020)

Multiphase Magnetism in Yb2Ti2O7

Authors: A. Scheie, J. Kindervater, S. Zhang, H. J. Changlani, G. Sala, G. Ehlers, A. Heinemann, G. S. Tucker, S. M. Koohpayeh, C. Broholm

Abstract: We document the coexistence of ferro- and anti-ferromagnetism in pyrochlore $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$ using three neutron scattering techniques on stoichiometric crystals: elastic neutron scattering shows a canted ferromagnetic ground state, neutron scattering shows spin wave excitations from both a ferro-and an antiferro-magnetic state, and field and temperature dependent small angle neutron scattering r… ▽ More We document the coexistence of ferro- and anti-ferromagnetism in pyrochlore $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$ using three neutron scattering techniques on stoichiometric crystals: elastic neutron scattering shows a canted ferromagnetic ground state, neutron scattering shows spin wave excitations from both a ferro-and an antiferro-magnetic state, and field and temperature dependent small angle neutron scattering reveals the corresponding anisotropic magnetic domain structure. High-field $\langle 111 \rangle$ spin wave fits show that $\rm Yb_2Ti_2O_7$ is extremely close to an antiferromagnetic phase boundary. Classical Monte Carlo simulations based on the interactions inferrred from high field spin wave measurements confirm $ψ_2$ antiferromagnetism is metastable within the FM ground state. △ Less

Submitted 10 December, 2019; originally announced December 2019.

Comments: 11 pages and 11 figures, 8 pages appendices with 10 additional figures

Journal ref: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2020)

Octupolar vs Néel Order in Cubic 5$d^2$ double perovskites

Authors: Dalini D. Maharaj, Gabriele Sala, Matthew B. Stone, Edwin Kermarrec, Clemens Ritter, François Fauth, Casey A. Marjerrison, John E. Greedan, Arun Paramekanti, Bruce D. Gaulin

Abstract: We report time-of-flight neutron spectroscopic and diffraction studies of the 5$d^2$ cubic double pervoskite magnets, Ba$_2$MOsO$_6$ ($M$ = Zn, Mg, Ca). These cubic materials are all described by antiferromagnetically-coupled 5$d^2$ Os$^{6+}$ ions decorating a face-centred cubic (FCC) lattice. They all exhibit thermodynamic anomalies consistent with phase transitions at a temperature $T^*$, and ex… ▽ More We report time-of-flight neutron spectroscopic and diffraction studies of the 5$d^2$ cubic double pervoskite magnets, Ba$_2$MOsO$_6$ ($M$ = Zn, Mg, Ca). These cubic materials are all described by antiferromagnetically-coupled 5$d^2$ Os$^{6+}$ ions decorating a face-centred cubic (FCC) lattice. They all exhibit thermodynamic anomalies consistent with phase transitions at a temperature $T^*$, and exhibit a gapped magnetic excitation spectrum with spectral weight concentrated at wavevectors typical of type I antiferromagnetic orders. While muon spin resonance experiments show clear evidence for time reversal symmetry breaking, no corresponding magnetic Bragg scattering is observed at low temperatures. These results, consistent with low temperature octupolar or quadrupolar order, are discussed in the context of other 5$d^2$ DP magnets, and theories for $d^2$ ions on a FCC lattice which predict exotic orders driven by multipolar interactions. △ Less

Submitted 19 September, 2019; v1 submitted 6 September, 2019; originally announced September 2019.

Comments: 6 pages, 4 figures main manuscript. 3 pages, 3 figures supplemental material. For parallel theory work, see arXiv:1909.03089

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 124, 087206 (2020)

Crystal field splitting, local anisotropy, and low energy excitations in the quantum magnet YbCl$_3$

Authors: G. Sala, M. B. Stone, Binod K. Rai, A. F. May, D. S. Parker, Gábor B. Halász, Y. Q. Cheng, G. Ehlers, V. O. Garlea, Q. Zhang, M. D. Lumsden, A. D. Christianson

Abstract: We study the correlated quantum magnet, YbCl$_3$, with neutron scattering, magnetic susceptibility, and heat capacity measurements. The crystal field Hamiltonian is determined through simultaneous refinements of the inelastic neutron scattering and magnetization data. The ground state doublet is well isolated from the other crystal field levels and results in an effective spin-1/2 system with loca… ▽ More We study the correlated quantum magnet, YbCl$_3$, with neutron scattering, magnetic susceptibility, and heat capacity measurements. The crystal field Hamiltonian is determined through simultaneous refinements of the inelastic neutron scattering and magnetization data. The ground state doublet is well isolated from the other crystal field levels and results in an effective spin-1/2 system with local easy plane anisotropy at low temperature. Cold neutron spectroscopy shows low energy excitations that are consistent with nearest neighbor antiferromagnetic correlations of reduced dimensionality. △ Less

Submitted 24 July, 2019; originally announced July 2019.

Comments: main paper plus supplemental information

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 100, 180406 (2019)

Crystal fields and magnetic structure of the Ising antiferromagnet Er$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$

Authors: Y. Cai, M. N. Wilson, J. Beare, C. Lygouras, G. Thomas, D. R. Yahne, K. Ross, K. M. Taddei, G. Sala, H. A. Dabkowska, A. A. Aczel, G. M. Luke

Abstract: Rare earth garnets are an exciting playground for studying the exotic magnetic properties of the frustrated hyperkagome lattice. Here we present a comprehensive study of the single ion and collective magnetic properties of the garnet Er$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$. Using inelastic neutron scattering, we find a crystal field ground state doublet for Er$^{3+}$ with strong Ising anisotropy along local [100] ax… ▽ More Rare earth garnets are an exciting playground for studying the exotic magnetic properties of the frustrated hyperkagome lattice. Here we present a comprehensive study of the single ion and collective magnetic properties of the garnet Er$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$. Using inelastic neutron scattering, we find a crystal field ground state doublet for Er$^{3+}$ with strong Ising anisotropy along local [100] axes. Magnetic susceptibility and heat capacity measurements provide evidence for long-range magnetic ordering with $T_N$~$=$~0.8~K, and no evidence for residual entropy is found when cooling through the ordering transition. Neutron powder diffraction reveals that the ground state spin configuration corresponds to the six-sublattice, Ising antiferromagnetic state ($Γ_3$) common to many of the rare earth garnets. However, we also found that $μ$SR appears to be insensitive to the ordering transition in this material, in which a low-temperature relaxation plateau was observed with no evidence of spontaneous muon precession. The combined muon and neutron results may be indicative of a dynamical ground state with a relatively long correlation time. Despite this potential complication, our work indicates that Er$_3$Ga$_5$O$_{12}$ is an excellent model system for studying the complex metamagnetism expected for a multi-axis antiferromagnet. △ Less

Submitted 22 October, 2019; v1 submitted 9 May, 2019; originally announced May 2019.

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 100, 184415 (2019)

Antiferromagnetic ordering and dipolar interactions of YbAlO$_3$

Authors: L. S. Wu, S. E. Nikitin, M. Brando, L. Vasylechko, G. Ehlers, M. Frontzek, A. T. Savici, G. Sala, A. D. Christianson, M. D. Lumsden, A. Podlesnyak

Abstract: In this paper we report low-temperature magnetic properties of the rare-earth perovskite material YbAlO$_3$. Results of elastic and inelastic neutron scattering experiment, magnetization measurements along with the crystalline electrical field (CEF) calculations suggest that the ground state of Yb moments is a strongly anisotropic Kramers doublet, and the moments are confined in the $ab$-plane, po… ▽ More In this paper we report low-temperature magnetic properties of the rare-earth perovskite material YbAlO$_3$. Results of elastic and inelastic neutron scattering experiment, magnetization measurements along with the crystalline electrical field (CEF) calculations suggest that the ground state of Yb moments is a strongly anisotropic Kramers doublet, and the moments are confined in the $ab$-plane, pointing at an angle of $\varphi = \pm 23.5^{\circ}$ to the $a$-axis. With temperature decreasing below $T_{\rm N}=0.88$ K, Yb moments order into the coplanar, but non-collinear antiferromagnetic (AFM) structure $AxGy$, where the moments are pointed along their easy-axes. In addition, we highlight the importance of the dipole-dipole interaction, which selects the type of magnetic ordering and may be crucial for understanding magnetic properties of other rare-earth orthorhombic perovskites. Further analysis of the broad diffuse neutron scattering shows that one-dimensional interaction along the $c$-axis is dominant, and suggests YbAlO$_3$ as a new member of one dimensional quantum magnets. △ Less

Submitted 9 May, 2019; v1 submitted 25 April, 2019; originally announced April 2019.

Comments: 8 pages, 6 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. B 99, 195117 (2019)

Tomonaga-Luttinger Liquid Behavior and Spinon Confinement in YbAlO$_3$

Authors: L. S. Wu, S. E. Nikitin, Z. Wang, W. Zhu, C. D. Batista, A. M. Tsvelik, A. M. Samarakoon, D. A. Tennant, M. Brando, L. Vasylechko, M. Frontzek, A. T. Savici, G. Sala, G. Ehlers, A. D. Christianson, M. D. Lumsden, A. Podlesnyak

Abstract: Low dimensional quantum magnets are interesting because of the emerging collective behavior arising from strong quantum fluctuations. The one-dimensional (1D) S = 1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet is a paradigmatic example, whose low-energy excitations, known as spinons, carry fractional spin S = 1/2. These fractional modes can be reconfined by the application of a staggered magnetic field. Even thou… ▽ More Low dimensional quantum magnets are interesting because of the emerging collective behavior arising from strong quantum fluctuations. The one-dimensional (1D) S = 1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet is a paradigmatic example, whose low-energy excitations, known as spinons, carry fractional spin S = 1/2. These fractional modes can be reconfined by the application of a staggered magnetic field. Even though considerable progress has been made in the theoretical understanding of such magnets, experimental realizations of this low-dimensional physics are relatively rare. This is particularly true for rare-earth based magnets because of the large effective spin anisotropy induced by the combination of strong spin-orbit coupling and crystal field splitting. Here, we demonstrate that the rare-earth perovskite YbAlO$_3$ provides a realization of a quantum spin S = 1/2 chain material exhibiting both quantum critical Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid behavior and spinon confinement-deconfinement transitions in different regions of magnetic field-temperature phase diagram. △ Less

Submitted 11 February, 2019; originally announced February 2019.

Comments: Main text: 25 pages, 7 figures; Supplementary Information: 11 pages, 8 figures

Journal ref: Nature Communications (2019) 10:698

Experimental signatures of a three-dimensional quantum spin liquid in effective spin-1/2 Ce2Zr2O7 pyrochlore

Authors: Bin Gao, Tong Chen, David W. Tam, Chien-Lung Huang, Kalyan Sasmal, Devashibhai T. Adroja, Feng Ye, Huibo Cao, Gabriele Sala, Matthew B. Stone, Christopher Baines, Joel A. T. Barker, Haoyu Hu, Jae-Ho Chung, Xianghan Xu, Sang-Wook Cheong, Manivannan Nallaiyan, Stefano Spagna, M. Brian Maple, Andriy H. Nevidomskyy, Emilia Morosan, Gang Chen, Pengcheng Dai

Abstract: A quantum spin liquid (QSL) is a state of matter where unpaired electrons' spins in a solid are quantum entangled, but do not show magnetic order in the zero-temperature limit. Because such a state may be important to the microscopic origin of high-transition temperature superconductivity and useful for quantum computation, the experimental realization of QSL is a long-sought goal in condensed mat… ▽ More A quantum spin liquid (QSL) is a state of matter where unpaired electrons' spins in a solid are quantum entangled, but do not show magnetic order in the zero-temperature limit. Because such a state may be important to the microscopic origin of high-transition temperature superconductivity and useful for quantum computation, the experimental realization of QSL is a long-sought goal in condensed matter physics. Although neutron scattering experiments on the two-dimensional (2D) spin-1/2 kagome-lattice ZnCu3(OD)6Cl2 and effective spin-1/2 triangular lattice YbMgGaO4 have found evidence for a continuum of magnetic excitations, the hallmark of a QSL carrying 'fractionalized quantum excitations', at very low temperature, magnetic and nonmagnetic site chemical disorder complicates the interpretation of the data. Recently, the three-dimensional (3D) Ce3+ pyrochlore lattice Ce2Sn2O7 has been suggested as a clean, effective spin-1/2 QSL candidate, but there is no evidence of a spin excitation continuum. Here we use thermodynamic, muon spin relaxation (μ SR), and neutron scattering experiments on single crystals of Ce2Zr2O7, a compound isostructural to Ce2Sn2O7, to demonstrate the absence of magnetic ordering and the presence of a spin excitation continuum at 35 mK, consistent with the expectation of a QSL. Since our neutron diffraction and diffuse scattering measurements on Ce2Zr2O7 reveal no evidence of oxygen deficiency and magnetic/nonmagnetic ion disorder as seen in other pyrochlores, Ce2Zr2O7 may be the first example of a 3D QSL material with minimum magnetic and nonmagnetic chemical disorder. △ Less

Submitted 8 September, 2019; v1 submitted 28 January, 2019; originally announced January 2019.

Journal ref: Nature Physics (2019)

Novel Strongly Spin-Orbit Coupled Quantum Dimer Magnet: Yb$_2$Si$_2$O$_7$

Authors: Gavin Hester, H. S. Nair, T. Reeder, D. R. Yahne, T. N. DeLazzer, L. Berges, D. Ziat, J. R. Neilson, A. A. Aczel, G. Sala, J. A. Quilliam, K. A. Ross

Abstract: The quantum dimer magnet (QDM) is the canonical example of quantum magnetism. The QDM state consists of entangled nearest-neighbor spin dimers and often exhibits a field-induced triplon Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) phase. We report on a new QDM in the strongly spin-orbit coupled, distorted honeycomb-lattice material Yb$_2$Si$_2$O$_7$. Our single crystal neutron scattering, specific heat, and ult… ▽ More The quantum dimer magnet (QDM) is the canonical example of quantum magnetism. The QDM state consists of entangled nearest-neighbor spin dimers and often exhibits a field-induced triplon Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) phase. We report on a new QDM in the strongly spin-orbit coupled, distorted honeycomb-lattice material Yb$_2$Si$_2$O$_7$. Our single crystal neutron scattering, specific heat, and ultrasound velocity measurements reveal a gapped singlet ground state at zero field with sharp, dispersive excitations. We find a field-induced magnetically ordered phase reminiscent of a BEC phase, with exceptionally low critical fields of $H_{c1} \sim 0.4$ T and $H_{c2} \sim 1.4$ T. Using inelastic neutron scattering in an applied magnetic field we observe a Goldstone mode (gapless to within $δE$ = 0.037 meV) that persists throughout the entire field-induced magnetically ordered phase, suggestive of the spontaneous breaking of U(1) symmetry expected for a triplon BEC. However, in contrast to other well-known cases of this phase, the high-field ($μ$$_0$$H\geq1.2$T) part of the phase diagram in Yb$_2$Si$_2$O$_7$ is interrupted by an unusual regime signaled by a change in the field dependence of the ultrasound velocity and magnetization, as well as the disappearance of a sharp anomaly in the specific heat. These measurements raise the question of how anisotropy in strongly spin-orbit coupled materials modifies the field induced phases of QDMs. △ Less

Submitted 9 July, 2019; v1 submitted 30 October, 2018; originally announced October 2018.

Comments: 6 pages, 4 figures, 12 pages of Supplemental Information, 15 Supplemental figures. Updated to published version

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 123, 027201 (2019)