Magnetization switching induced by spin–orbit torque from Co2MnGa magnetic Weyl semimetal thin films

Abstract

This study reports the magnetization switching induced by spin–orbit torque (SOT) from the spin current generated in Co₂MnGa magnetic Weyl semimetal (WSM) thin films. We deposited epitaxial Co₂MnGa thin films with a highly B2-ordered structure on MgO(001) substrates. The SOT was characterized by harmonic Hall measurements in a Co₂MnGa/Ti/CoFeB heterostructure, and a relatively large spin Hall efficiency (ξ_SH) of −7.8% was obtained. The SOT-induced magnetization switching of the perpendicularly magnetized CoFeB layer was further demonstrated using the structure. The symmetry of second harmonic signals, thickness dependence of ξ_SH, and shift of anomalous Hall loops under applied currents were also investigated. This study not only contributes to the understanding of the mechanisms of spin-current generation from magnetic-WSM-based heterostructures but also paves the way for the applications of magnetic WSMs in spintronic devices.