Exchange bias realignment using a laser-based direct-write technique

Abstract We report on selective realignment of the exchange biased magnetization direction in spintronic layer stacks using rapidly deflected focused laser radiation in a direct-write technique. Laser-based magnetic field cooling by applying either pulsed or continuous wave laser radiation was investigated. The magnetic properties of laser-based field cooled layer stacks were investigated by using magneto optical Kerr effect (MOKE) measurements. The dependencies of the processing parameters peak intensity and external magnetic field strength on the resulting exchange bias field strength were evaluated. In addition, temperature field simulations gain deeper insights into the mechanisms of laser-based field cooling. Our results show significant influence of the laser processing regime. Field cooling induced by continuous laser radiation caused higher exchange bias field strengths, compared to pulsed laser radiation. Moreover, the external magnetic field strength affected the resulting exchange bias field strength only by irradiating low-intensity laser beams.