Single Skyrmion Generation via a Vertical Nanocontact in a 2D Magnet-Based Heterostructure.

ABSTRACT: Skyrmions have been well studied in chiral magnets and magnetic thin films due to their potential application in practical devices. Recently, monochiral skyrmions have been observed in two-dimensional van der Waals magnets. Their atomically flat surfaces and capability to be stacked into heterostructures offer new prospects for skyrmion applications. However, the controlled local nucleation of skyrmions within these materials has yet to be realized. Here, we utilize real-space X-ray microscopy to investigate a heterostructure composed of the 2D ferromagnet Fe₃GeTe₂ (FGT), an insulating hexagonal boron nitride layer, and a graphite top electrode. Upon a stepwise increase of the voltage applied between the graphite and FGT, a vertically conducting pathway can be formed.

SUBMITTER: Powalla L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9756335 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature