Heusler compounds and spintronics

Abstract Heusler compounds are a large group of intermetallic compounds with over 1000 members with similar crystal structures having a vast array of tunable properties. These properties depend on the number of valence electrons per formula unit allowing tuning of properties through composition and alloying. The Heusler lattice parameters span many metal oxides and semiconductors and their crystal structures are closely related. For spintronic applications, the magnetic and half-metallic properties, in particular, are of great interest. In this paper the electronic and magnetic properties of Heusler compounds are discussed as well as the importance of composition and defect control on tailoring their properties. Examples of applications include the great success of Heusler magnetic tunnel junction in metallic spintronic devices. The potential of going beyond metallic spintronics to the integration of Heusler compounds with III–V semiconductors for semiconductor spintronics device physics and technology, the tuning of magnetic properties, and the fabrication of Heusler compound heterostructures and superlattices are also discussed.