Magnetic transition in Co/(Gd–Co) multilayers

Abstract [Co/Gd 0.36 Co 0.64 ] 4 /Co multilayers with Co termination layer have been prepared by rf sputtering. They form macroscopic ferrimagnets with a compensation temperature ( T comp ) determined by the thickness ratio of the layers. In low fields the magnetization of Co and Gd–Co layers are along the axis of the applied field. Increasing field makes the moments of both the Co and Gd–Co layers deviate from the axis of the field giving rise to a transition into a twisted state. These magnetic transitions were studied by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), magneto-optic Kerr effect and magnetoresistance measurements at various temperatures. The nucleation and evolution of surface- and bulk-twisted magnetic states were also observed in these multilayers.