Spin and magnon transport in domains of strained antiferromagnetic SrMnO₃ films

Spintronics utilizes the magnetic properties of electrons, known as spin, to process and store information. This technology has the potential to enhance computing by making devices faster and more efficient. In his thesis, Job van Rijn studied SrMnO₃ (SMO), an insulating material with the intriguing potential to exhibit both magnetic and electrical order simultaneously—a property known as multiferroicity. This unique characteristic could pave the way for new types of computing architectures.

In his research, Van Rijn investigated how different methods of stretching and compressing SMO (referred to as strain) affect its magnetic properties and the transport of spins within the material. He first grew ultra-thin layers of SMO and examined how variations in the growth process influence the material’s structure. Factors such as oxygen vacancies and cracks in the material play significant roles. These cracks define rectangular domains within SMO that exhibit varying conductive properties, creating fascinating microscopic images.

Van Rijn then used advanced techniques using nanoscale devices to probe SMO's magnetic properties, revealing complex magnetic patterns and domain structures. By varying the size and location of these nanodevices, the study examines these magnetic patterns on a very small scale.

Van Rijn also uncovered SMO’s ability to carry magnons—quantum waves of spin—over long distances, essential for controlling these waves with electric fields. This work highlights SMO's promise as a key material for next-generation spintronic devices, offering new ways to manage information and energy efficiently.

Dissertation: https://hdl.handle.net/11370/c9cc9254-8f51-4515-a5fa-8171e56cd60a